Multifunctionality by Self-Assembly of Hybrid Molecular Materials (MULTI-Fun)

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Mario Ruben
• Subject Area: Physical Chemistry of Molecules, Liquids and Interfaces, Biophysical Chemistry
• Term: from 2006 to 2012
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 25023385

We propose a hierarchical self-assembly of multifunctional molecular architectures, in which bricks bearing different functionalities (magnetic, electronic, or photophysical) are organized through non-covalent electrostatic interactions into higher-order structures. By carefully choosing the molecular building blocks, we will prepare a hybrid hierarchically-organised material that exhibits at least two physical properties which are difficult or impossible to achieve concomitantly by other means. Using this approach, challenging combinations of physical properties and new physical phenomena can be envisioned, which point towards potential applications in molecular electronics, spintronics and optotronics. The different physical functionalities to combine will be located on positively and negatively charged molecular building blocks [M-][C+], which are expected to self-assemble by electrostatic interactions to molecular architectures of increased structural complexity (e.g. stacks, pillars, sheets, etc.) We will explore the possibilities provided by a molecular approach to build multifunctional (photo)magnetic conductors and superconductors as hybrid materials formed by organic cation-radicals (TTF derivates), cationic dye molecules (e.g. Rhodamine compounds) and single-molecule magnet anions (e.g. of the [Ln(Pc)2]- -family). The interplay between physical and structural properties will be investigated in detail, where new physical phenomena could be present.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: Spain
• Participating Person: Dr. José Ramón Galán-Mascarós