Exploring the Tilt-Angle Dependence of Electron Tunneling across Molecular Junctions of Self-Assembled Alkanethiols

Electronic transport mechanisms in molecular junctions are investigated by a combination of first-principles calculations and current-voltage measurements of several well-characterized structures. We study self-assembled layers of alkanethiols grown on Au(111) and form tunnel junctions by contacting the molecular layers with the tip of a conductive force microscope. Measurements done under low-load conditions permit us to obtain reliable tilt-angle and molecular length dependencies of the low-bias conductance through the alkanethiol layers. The observed dependence on tilt-angle is stronger for the longer molecular chains. Our calculations confirm the observed trends and explain them as a result of two mechanisms, namely, a previously proposed intermolecular tunneling enhancement as well as a hitherto overlooked tilt-dependent molecular gate effect.

Munuera, C (author)
Ocal, C (author)
Brandbyge, Mads (author)
Paulsson, MagnusHögskolan i Kalmar,Naturvetenskapliga institutionen(Swepub:lnu)epama (author)
Sanches-Portal, D (author)
Arnau, A (author)
Högskolan i KalmarNaturvetenskapliga institutionen (creator_code:org_t)

By the author/editor: Frederiksen, Tho ...; Munuera, C; Ocal, C; Brandbyge, Mads; Paulsson, Magnus; Sanches-Portal, ...; show more...; Arnau, A; show less...

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