Recent progresses of single-molecule transistors: Design, mechanism and applications

A single-molecule field-effect transistor (FET) is the key building block of future electronic circuits. At the same time, a single-molecule FET is also a unique platform for studying physical mechanisms at the single-molecule level. How to construct single-molecule FETs and how to efficiently control the charge transfer characteristics of the devices are two core issues in the development of single-molecule FETs. In this review, we introduce the research progresses of single-molecule FETs with solid or liquid gates. Strategies to design single-molecule FETs are emphasized, including the design of functional molecules, the construction of gate electrodes and the control of molecule-electrode interface coupling. These single-molecule FETs provide a basis for practical applications and the exploration of physical laws. Specifically, the physical mechanisms of single-molecule FETs, especially those related to interfacial coupling, are explained, such as energy level shift, Coulomb blockade effect, Kondo effect and electron-phonon coupling. The applications of single-molecule FETs are summarized, including the regulation of quantum interference, spin, thermoelectric effect and superconductivity. Finally, the current opportunities and challenges in the field of single-molecule FETs are proposed, aiming to promote the future development of single-molecule electronics.