Single Molecule Mechanics on Surface

Kwan Ho Au-Yeung

authors00000

Kwan Ho Au-Yeung

title

Single Molecule Mechanics on Surface

Please use the following URL when quoting:

https://nbn-resolving.org/urn:nbn:de:bsz:14-qucosa2-901221

Date of submission

04.07.2023

Date of defense

19.12.2023

Abstract (EN)

This thesis explores the mechanics of single molecule machines on a surface, aiming to understand the principles underlying synthetic single molecular machines. The study utilizes scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) at ultra-low temperatures and high vacuum conditions to investigate individual small molecules adsorbed on a substrate. In the first part, the transmission of rotation between single molecule-gears is examined, employing a star-shaped pentaphenylcyclopentadiene molecule manipulated by STM. The second part focuses on a zwitterionic and chiral molecule's dual functionality as a molecule-rotor or a molecule-vehicle (nanocar), with motion driven by tunneling electrons. The third part explores the origin of unidirectional rotation in a single molecule-rotor, analyzing the effects of thermal and electronic excitations on rotation dynamics. Overall, this work contributes to the fundamental understanding of nanoscale mechanical molecular devices and their potential applications.

Keywords (EN)

Scanning tunneling microscopy, Molecular machines, Unidirectional rotation

Classification (DDC)

620

Classification (RVK)

ZN 3700

Examiner