Azobenzenes as Light-Controlled Molecular Electronic Switches in Nanoscale Metal−Molecule−Metal Junctions

Abstract

Self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) of azo-biphenyl derivatives AZO1 have been ssembled on gold surfaces and electrocally tested under irradiation. Comparable maximal cis/trans ratios of ca. 0.9 have been observed in all cases upon irradiation at λ = 370 nm and λ = 360 nm. The current values measured by STM on the two isomers indicate a largere current for the cis isomer respet to the trans isomer, in agreement with the theory.