<scp><i>N</i>‐Heterocyclic</scp> Carbene Anchors in Electronics Applications

Abstract

Since the first demonstration of chemisorption of N ‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC) on a gold substrate by Weidner and Siemeling in 2011, NHCs for anchors to deposit molecules on metallic surfaces are gathering increasing attention in academic research. The covalent chemistry of divalent carbenic C atom in NHCs with coinage metal substates can overcome the limitations that traditional thiol anchors have encountered. This review covers recent advances on NHC anchor‐based molecular devices for electronics applications through the following stepwise approach. (1) The background of covalent bonding of NHC with coinage metals is briefly introduced. (2) Next, a comprehensive summary about functions of NHC anchor‐based molecular devices under electric fields is provided. (3) Last, we wrap up this review, discussing future challenges and perspectives.