Hybrid Interfaces in Molecular Spintronics

Abstract

Molecular/inorganic multilayer heterostructures are gaining attention in molecular electronics and more recently in new generation spintronic devices. The intrinsic properties of molecular materials as low cost, tuneability, or long spin lifetimes were the original reasons behind their implementation. However, the non-innocent role played by these hybrid interfaces is a determinant factor in the device performance. In this account we will give an overview about different types of hybrid molecular system/ferromagnet interfaces, which can be of direct application in molecular spintronics. This includes the insertion of a 2D material in between the molecular system and the ferromagnet. As perspective, new hybrid interfaces able to tune the spin properties under an external stimulus, are proposed. These smart interfaces, based on switchable magnetic molecules or flexible MOFs, can open the way to new multifunctional spintronic devices able to couple the spin with a second property.

Molecular magnetism: from chemical design to spin control in molecules, materials and devices

“…This part has emphasized that molecules (not necessarily magnetic) in close proximity with the ferromagnetic electrodes can be used not only as spin transport media of spintronic devices but also for tuning the spin polarization of ferromagnetic materials at the interface. 52 Still, magnetic molecules have played a very limited role yet. Thus, the magnetic functionality of molecules and their most interesting properties (slow relaxation of the magnetization, quantum tunnelling effects, spin switching, etc.)…”

Innovation of Materials, Devices, and Functionalized Interfaces in Organic Spintronics

“…Moreover, 2D materials, such as Gr, can modify and adjust the Fermi energy level and surface state structure of FM electrodes and, thus, facilitate better spin‐polarized injection. [ 195 ] Meanwhile, organic molecules can be optimized to be arranged more orderly on the surface of 2D materials such that they exhibit superior charge transport behavior [ 196 ] and better spin transport property. [ 196,197 ] However, more experiments need to be designed and implemented, which are expected to motivate future research in organic spintronics.…”

A tetrairon(III) single-molecule magnet and its solvatomorphs: synthesis, crystal structures and vapor-phase processing

“…The processing of single-molecule magnets (SMMs) into films with variable thickness, down to monolayers or sub-monolayers [1,2], is motivated by the perspective use of these magnetically bistable materials in spintronic devices [3] or as individually addressable, surface-supported magnetic bits [4]. A major breakthrough in the field was the recent discovery that some organometallic monodysprosium(III) SMMs retain a memory effect above the normal boiling point of liquid dinitrogen [5][6][7].…”

“…Some tetrairon(III) compounds with formula [Fe4(L R )2(dpm)6]solv are also sublimable (Hdpm = dipivaloylmethane, solv = lattice solvent). This family of SMMs have a propeller-like structure enveloped by a bulky shell of twelve tBu groups and held together by two tripodal (L R ) 3− ligands (H3L R = 2-R-2-(hydroxymethyl)propane-1,3-diol). A number of derivatives have been prepared and characterized which differ in the R substituent and/or in the presence and nature of lattice solvent [25].…”