Top-contacting molecular monolayers using single crystalline Au microplate electrodes

Abstract

Integrating molecules in electronic devices to exploit their unique properties requires efficient methods to bring about their electrical contact in large arrays. In this study, chemically synthesized single crystalline Au microplates have been employed as top-contact electrodes in a micro-sandwich device where molecules could be sandwiched between the bottom Au film and the top microplate in capacitor geometry. The device has been tested employing many alkanemono- and -dithiols not only in as-adsorbed conditions but also under dynamic loading. Further, encapsulation using PDMS was carried out which enhanced its stability and shelf-life.