Guided Motion at Surfaces: Exploratory Research towards Molecular-Scale Machinery

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AbstractCHE-0647152Bartels/UC-RiversideThis research project, carried out in the laboratories of Professor Bartels and Professor Marsella at UC-Riverside, addresses the question of designed molecular motion on surfaces. The combination of the synthesis of molecules with tailored dynamic properties with careful consideration and characterization of the molecule substrate interaction is used to investigate the concept of "molecular machines" exhibiting pre-determined surface motion. With the support of the Analytical and Surface Chemistry Program, this team explores the development of directional surface "walkers" and possible "carriers" by a systematic interplay between synthesis, adsorption, and characterization using scanning probe microscopy. Substituted anthracenes are the focus of the work initially, branching to other promising adsorbate targets as the principles of the work develop. This research project focuses on the design, synthesis, and evaluation of molecules that could serve as the basis for molecular scale machinery. Professors Bartels and Marsella, and their coworkers at UC-Riverside, are examining the directional motion of adsorbed molecules that have been purposely synthesized to take advantage of anisotropic adsorbate-substrate interactions, leading to directional motion on the surface. This work, with the support of the Analytical and Surface Chemistry Program, will provide some of the fundamental groundwork for the developing area of "molecular machinery".