MOLECULAR SPIN DEVICES: CURRENT UNDERSTANDING AND NEW TERRITORIES

Abstract

Molecular spin devices (MSDs) are the most promising candidate for futuristic quantum computation, having potential to resolve spin scattering issue which compromise the utility of conventional spin devices. The MSDs have been extensively reviewed from the view points of device physics and the application of target molecules, such as single molecular magnets. Fabrication of a competent MSD still remains an intractable task. In this review, we first describe the experimental studies where spin state of molecule and/or electrode affected the device transport, especially under magnetic field. Then, we correlated the number of theoretical and experimental results from various domains of nanomagnetism to highlight the scope and future directions panoramically. Finally, the key designs of various MSDs, including our recently developed multilayer edge molecular electrode, have been discussed. A multilayer edge molecular electrode, prepared by bridging the molecular clusters on the exposed edges of a customized ferromagnet–insulator–ferromagnet junction, can be a promising platform for testing the variety of molecular magnets.