Surface-Mounted Molecular Rotors with Variable Functional Groups and Rotation Radii

Abstract

A strategy for designing and activating surface-mounted molecular rotors with variable rotation radii and functional groups is proposed and demonstrated. The key point of the strategy is to separate the anchor and the rotating functional group from each other by using a connector of adjustable length. The three independent parts of the molecule are responsible for different functions to support the rotating movement of the molecule as a whole. In this way, one can easily change each part to obtain molecular rotors with different sizes, anchors, and functional rotating groups.