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Spin-Dependent Transport through Chiral Molecules Studied by Spin-Dependent Electrochemistry
Prakash Chandra Mondal1, Claudio Fontanesi1,2, David H Waldeck3
1Department of Chemical Physics, Weizmann Institute of Science , Rehovot 76100, Israel.
Accounts of Chemical Research
|November 5, 2016
Summary
Chiral molecules act as spin filters, enabling spin-dependent electrochemistry. This research explores spin-selective charge transport in chiral polymers and biomolecules, paving the way for novel spintronic devices.
Area of Science:
- Molecular spintronics
- Spin-dependent electrochemistry
- Chiral-induced spin selectivity (CISS)
Background:
- Molecular spintronics leverages electron spin and charge for device applications.
- Chiral molecules exhibit an unexpected spin-filtering property known as chiral-induced spin selectivity (CISS).
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate spin-dependent charge transport in nonmagnetic chiral conductive polymers and biomolecules using novel electrochemical measurements.
- To probe the influence of molecular chirality, protein structure, and external stimuli (light, magnetic fields) on spin selectivity.
Main Methods:
- Utilized spin-dependent electrochemical measurements with ferromagnetic electrodes modified by chiral molecules.
- Employed redox probes and varied magnetic field orientations (UP/DOWN) to assess spin polarization.
- Investigated photoelectrochemical responses and the impact of protein denaturation and gold coatings on electrodes.
Main Results:
- Observed significant spin polarization (5-30%) in various chiral molecules, including oligopeptides, cysteine, cytochrome c, and bacteriorhodopsin.
- Demonstrated chirality-dependent spin polarization in cysteine films and light-induced flipping of photocurrent spin orientation.
- Revealed the influence of protein structure and denaturation on spin-selective transport.
Conclusions:
- Chiral-induced spin polarization is a robust phenomenon applicable to diverse chiral molecules and biomolecules.
- Combining CISS with light and magnetic fields offers new functionalities for spintronic devices.
- This work advances the understanding of spin transport in chiral systems and opens avenues for novel molecular spintronics.
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