Transition metal-based chiroptical switches for nanoscale electronics and sensors

Efficient metal-based chiroptical switches have been designed that are capable of achieving multiple stable and reversible states Studies in this field have yielded a variety of complex molecular devices whose conformations are controllable by many triggering mechanisms including pressure, solvent, counter ion, redox state, and photoinduction Many of the systems are monitored with precision using circular dichroism spectroscopy. This review aims to provide a brief background of the development of these systems and a comprehensive overview of recently developed metal-based chiroptical switches Potential applications in electronics and sensor technologies are discussed (C) 2010 Elsevier B V All rights reserved.