Interfaces: where chemistry meets electronics

Chemistry is often recognized as ‘the central science’due to its fundamental role in various fields, from biology via environmental sciences and up to materials engineering. The chemical aspects of electronics are less obvious, which will be the topic of this talk. Electronics is based on asymmetry in electro-chemical potential induced by forming interfaces of various types. Our study aims to control the electronic properties by inserting monolayers of organic molecules, into solid interfaces, thus altering their chemistry. Specifically, I focus on a metal /semiconductor (e.g., mercury / silicon) interfaces which serve as model systems. I will discuss various aspects of such modified interfaces, like the connection between chemical reactivity and electrical activity[1] and the emergence of new electronic states, by hybridization between the organic and inorganic matter.[2] Yet, the key meritof moleculesis their ability to hold a sharp electro-chemical potential gradient across them, or forming a dipole. Based on this understanding we have reached a record tuning of charge transport by 8 orders of magnitude, by merely altering a single substituent of styrene molecules, forming a monolayer within Si/Hg interface.[3]Understanding the intimate relations between chemistry and electrical potential has vast technological implications, from improving the efficiency of solar-cells and plastic electronics, and up to sensors and catalysis. 


[1]	O. Yaffe et al.,J.Phys. Chem.C2013, 117, 22351.
[2]	T. Toledanoet al.,J. Elect. Spect. Relat. Phenom.2015, 204, Part A, 149.
[3]	A. Haj-Yahiaet al., Adv. Mater.2013, 25, 702.