Small molecule crystals with 1D water wires modulate electronic properties of surface water networks. (March 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Saraei, Nina; Gupta, Alexander J.; Hietsoi, Oleksandr; Frye, Brian C.; Hofsommer, Dillon T.; Sumanasekera, Gamini; Gupta, Gautam; Mashuta, Mark S.; Buchanan, Robert M.; Grapperhaus, Craig A.
• Is Part Of: Applied materials today. Volume 22(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-03
• Subjects: Surface conductivity -- Electronic properties -- Proton mobility -- Water wires -- Humidity sensor; Materials science -- Periodicals; Materials -- Research -- Periodicals; 620.1105
• DOI: 10.1016/j.apmt.2020.100895
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2352-9407

Abstract

Highlights: Small molecule crystal changes conductivity as a function of water vapor pressure. Reversible surface hydration increases conductivity by > 3 orders of magnitude. Crystal lattice remains hydrated upon switching between wet and dry conditions. 1D water wires in crystal lattice template assembly of surface water networks. Functional groups and crystal packing imprint surface elements to organize water. Abstract: This study evaluates the effect of water vapor pressure on the surface conductivity of a hydrated small molecule crystal under dry and wet conditions. The crystal contains a discrete metal complex with waters of hydration in structural positions and in 1D water wires. Under dry conditions, the surface of the hydrated crystal behaves as a near ideal capacitor. Under wet conditions, the waters of hydration serve as a template to assemble surface water networks by organization of water from the environment. The surface water provides pathways for charge transfer attributed to proton mobility that increases conductivity by > 3 orders in magnitude. Modulation between wet and dry conditions tunes the conductivity of the crystal surface via a two-step process, which has been evaluated kinetically as a function of the water vapor pressure. Graphical Abstract: Image, graphical abstract