Parallel molecular stacks of organic thin film with electrical bistability

Abstract

A thin film of 1,1-dicyano-2,2-(4-dimethylaminophenyl) ethylene (DDME) has been grown by a modified vacuum deposition. The films were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and scanning tunneling microscopy (STM). Highly ordered parallel molecular stacks were repeatedly observed with STM under ambient conditions. The dc current–voltage (I–V) characteristics of device Au/DDME/Au were measured, and the film was found to possess good electrical bistability and electrochromic properties. Nanometer-scale recording was realized on the film by applying pulse voltage between the STM tip and substrate. The possible switching mechanism is discussed.