Imine linkers enable the formation of robust single-molecule junctions

Area of Science:

• Molecular electronics
• Supramolecular chemistry

Background:

• Imine (C=N) groups are key in dynamic chemistry.
• Their utility in forming single-molecule junctions with gold electrodes and their electronic properties are not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of imine groups in forming single-molecule junctions.
• To compare the electronic properties of imine-terminated molecular junctions with amine-terminated ones.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of single-molecule junctions using imine-terminated molecular wires.
• Conductance measurements of imine-based junctions.
• Comparison with amine-based junctions under varying conditions, including steric hindrance.

Main Results:

• Imine groups act as effective chemical anchors for reliable single-molecule junction formation with gold electrodes.
• Imine-terminated wires exhibit slightly higher conductance compared to amine-terminated analogues.
• Stable junctions were formed using imines under steric hindrance, where amines failed.

Conclusions:

• Imine groups are versatile and reliable linkers for constructing single-molecule electronic junctions.
• Imine linkers offer advantages over amine linkers, particularly in challenging conditions like steric hindrance.
• This work expands the toolkit for molecular junction design and fabrication.