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Switching Mechanisms for Single-Molecule Logic Gates

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Book cover Architecture and Design of Molecule Logic Gates and Atom Circuits

Part of the book series: Advances in Atom and Single Molecule Machines ((AASMM))

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Abstract

Single-molecule logic gates have the potential to fundamentally revolutionize computer architecture. However, performing any type of logic function within a single molecule requires using external inputs to modify one or more of the intrinsic properties of the molecule, such as its geometrical conformation, electronic structure, or spin configuration. In this chapter, we will discuss the variety of different physical mechanisms which have been proposed to induce and control such changes, ranging from applied potential bias and electric fields to chemical interactions to mechanical pressure, focusing in particular on their suitability for use in single-molecule logic circuitry.

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Acknowledgements

Funding by the European Union and the Free State of Saxony (ECEMP project A2 (EFRE), ESF project 080942409 InnovaSens), and the ICT-FET Integrated Project AtMol is gratefully acknowledged.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Institute for Materials Science and Max Bergmann Center of Biomaterials, Dresden University of Technology, 01062, Dresden, Germany

    C. Toher, F. Moresco & G. Cuniberti

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  1. C. Toher
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  2. F. Moresco
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  3. G. Cuniberti
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Correspondence to C. Toher or G. Cuniberti .

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  1. CIN2 (CSIC-ICN), Campus de la UAB, Bellaterra, 08193, Spain

    Nicolas Lorente

  2. , GNS, CNRS, Rue J. Marvig 29, Toulousse Cedex, 31055, France

    Christian Joachim

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Toher, C., Moresco, F., Cuniberti, G. (2013). Switching Mechanisms for Single-Molecule Logic Gates. In: Lorente, N., Joachim, C. (eds) Architecture and Design of Molecule Logic Gates and Atom Circuits. Advances in Atom and Single Molecule Machines. Springer, Berlin, Heidelberg. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-642-33137-4_5

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