Phys.org February 15, 2022
Organic molecules consist of aromatic benzene rings, flat rings made up of six carbon atoms, which do not change properties or shape if subjected to electric potential. An international team of researchers (Sweden, Denmark) developed a successful formula to design anti-aromatic hydrocarbons made up of rings with eight carbon atoms. When bent into a tub-shape, it becomes more robust and can both receive and relay electrons. If two electrons are injected into it the hydrocarbon flattens and goes from insulating to conducting—a function like that of a transistor switching from 0 to 1. The combination of stable electromechanical responsivity and ability to relay electrons stepwise through an extended (pseudo-conjugated) Ï€-system in partially reduced structures validate it as a practical platform for developing new responsive materials and switches based on [8]annulene cores…read more. Open Access TECHNICAL ARTICLE
Structures of dbCOT3 and K6dbCOT3. Credit: Nature Communications volume 13, Article number: 860 (2022)