The structure, optical properties and photovoltaic effect in Langmuir-Schaefer films of nickel (II) bis-semiquinone complex derived from 3,6-di-tert-butyl-benzoquinone annulated with a 1,3-dithiole-2-thiocarbonyl fragment

Molecules with an extended conjugated pi-electron system and a flat rigid topology have traditionally been considered as appropriate candidates for organic (semi-)conductors. With their potential for intramolecular charge transfer, these molecules can have bright prospects in optoelectronic device manufacturing. In this work we describe a novel bis-semiquinone complex of nickel and o-quinone annulated with a 1,3-dithiol-2-thiocarbonyl fragment and the peculiarities of thin-film deposition of this compound on different substrates. It is shown that a thin film can maintain the crystal structure of the original complex. A photovoltaic effect is detected in sandwich structures with an aluminum cathode. It is anticipated that further optimization of the structure of such sulfur-rich molecules will prodive solid-state ensembles with promising photovoltaic and/or photodetecting properties.

Automated summary

In this work, a novel bis-semiquinone complex of nickel and o-quinone annulated with a 1,3-dithiol-2-thiocarbonyl fragment is described, and the deposition of thin films of this compound on different substrates is investigated. It is found that the thin film can maintain the crystal structure of the original complex. A photovoltaic effect is observed in sandwich structures with an aluminum cathode. Further optimization of the structure of sulfur-rich molecules is expected to yield solid-state ensembles with promising photovoltaic and/or photodetecting properties.