Linear vs Exponential Formation of Molecular-Based Assemblies

• Published in: Journal of the American Chemical Society Vol. 132; no. 27; pp. 9295 - 9297
• Main Authors: Choudhury, Joyanta, Kaminker, Revital, Motiei, Leila, Ruiter, Graham de, Morozov, Michael, Lupo, Fabio, Gulino, Antonino, Boom, Milko E. van der
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States American Chemical Society 14.07.2010
• ISSN: 0002-7863; 1520-5126
• DOI: 10.1021/ja104203v

Here we present the critical role of the molecular structure and reaction parameters on the nature of thin-film growth, using a versatile two-step assembly method with organic and metal−organic chromophores cross-linked with palladium. It was found that the polypyridyl complexes exhibit exponential growth, whereas, under identical conditions, the organic systems exhibit linear behavior. The internal film morphology plays a pivotal role in the storage and usage of the palladium, where a more porous structure results in exponential growth. Interestingly, through proper tuning of the reaction conditions, the growth of the molecular assemblies can be controlled, resulting in a changeover from exponential to linear growth. These findings unequivocally demonstrate the importance of both the internal film structure and deposition conditions on the assembly of molecular-based films.