N-Heterocyclic 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.