Ionic landscapes in single-molecule electronics: shaping charge transport beyond energy level realignment
Xinyan Mai, Ziyi Ju, Jingying Zhao, Zilong Cao, Yueqi Li, Jinghong Li
Abstract
electrochemical gating. Key points include the modulation of tunneling barrier shapes, molecular conformations, electrode work functions, and molecule-electrode coupling, as well as the critical roles of solvent-ion interactions, pH levels, and counterion effects. Both classical and innovative experimental approaches are evaluated to provide a comprehensive understanding of how ionic environments dynamically shape molecular electronics. The integration of theoretical and experimental frameworks is also addressed, with an emphasis on developing design principles for electrolytes and junction configurations to enable precise ionic control. The review highlights the importance of ionic effects in advancing molecular electronics, from fundamental chemical insights to practical applications, and discusses their implications in device design and experimental methodologies.