Measuring molecular magnets for quantum technologies

Single-molecule magnets (SMMs) have been proposed for applications in high-density storage, quantum simulation, quantum computing and spintronics applications. Bulk magnetometric and spectroscopic techniques of molecular systems have allowed the observation of remarkable quantum effects in SMMs, such as the observation of an energy barrier, the reversal of the magnetization and quantum tunnelling of the magnetization. Over the past 10 years, scanning tunnelling microscopy of SMMs and single-molecule devices architectures, such as spin valves and spin transistors, have shed light onto the quantum properties of SMMs at the single-molecule level. More recently, new techniques, where the spin degrees of freedom in SMMs can be read out by photons, are being studied. Here, we review key techniques allowing the observation of quantum effects, important for the initialization, control and readout of the states of the SMMs, ultimately leading to the implementation of SMMs in technological applications. Magnetic molecules have been widely proposed for different quantum technologies due to their bewildering quantum properties. This Review describes techniques of paramount importance for the characterization, understanding and, ultimately, manipulation of the electronic properties of these systems.

Automated summary

Single-molecule magnets (SMMs) exhibit remarkable quantum effects, such as energy barriers, magnetization reversal, and quantum tunneling, which have been observed through bulk magnetometric and spectroscopic techniques. Advanced methods like scanning tunneling microscopy have provided insights into the quantum properties of SMMs at the single-molecule level, paving the way for their application in technological advancements. New techniques involving the use of photons to read the spin degrees of freedom in SMMs are also being explored for future developments.