Multi-Spin Interactions and Dynamics for Organic Spintronics

Northwestern University, Evanston IL

Investigators

Abstract

With this Renewal Award, the Chemical Structure, Dynamics, and Mechanisms Program continues to support Michael R. Wasielewski of Northwestern University in a project involving investigations of the factors controlling spin interactions and dynamics in organic multi-spin systems. In these studies, photoexcitation of organic radicals will be used to generate multi-spin systems which will be manipulated by optical and microwave pulse techniques to study their spin dynamics. The properties of these multi-spin systems in tailored covalent organic structures will be investigated to determine if their spin dynamics can be used to control spin polarization transport. These experiments, aimed at controlling the spin dynamics in multi-spin systems, will contribute to an understanding of the fundamental factors affecting electronic communication in organic molecules. These investigations have the potential to make major contributions in light harvesting technology, energy storage and the development of quantum computers. The project will train students in modern spectroscopic and synthetic techniques. Collaboration with Professor Mark P. Niemczyk of Wheaton College will allow undergraduate students from that institution to participate in the project.