Achievement

IGERT Fellow Cen Tan has synthesized and characterized a series of rigid linear molecules containing a varying number of metal-atom centers to use as molecular wires. Compared to previously studied metal-containing molecules, spectroscopic and electrochemical evidence suggest that the newly synthesized molecules exhibit stronger communication between the metal atoms due to the presence of carbon-metal bonds. This in turn results in smaller energy gaps, which is necessary for good electrical conduction through the molecules. In collaboration with Carlos Balseiro and the Solid State Theory Group at Centro Atómico Bariloche, Cen is planning experiments in which she will probe the conductance properties of these molecules. In addition to possible applications in molecular electronics, the presence of multiple metal atoms that readily accept or lose electrons enables detailed fundamental studies of the chemistry and physics of important problems in magnetism and superconductivity.