Patent attributes
A molecular-based switching device and method for controlling charge transport across a molecule. The molecular-based switching device includes a molecule having first and second nodes in between which destructive quantum interference restricts electrical conduction from the first node to the second node in an off-state, a first electrode connected to the first node and configured to supply charge carriers to the first node, a second electrode connected to the second node and configured to remove the charge carriers from the second node, and a control element configured to reduce coherence in or alter charge transport paths between the first and second nodes so as to reduce existing destructive quantum interference and permit flow of the charge carriers from the first node to the second node. The method applies an electric potential between the first and second electrodes, controls coherence in charge transport paths between the first and second nodes so as to maintain or reduce destructive interference between the first and second nodes of the molecule, and injects charge carriers from the first electrode into the first node and collects the charge carriers from the second node at the second electrode when the coherence is controlled to reduce destructive interference.
