The electronic applications of stable diradicaloids: present and future

Abstract

Organic molecules with unpaired electrons are intriguing for advanced applications in molecular electronics, spintronics and organic batteries, as well as other possible applications. Among them, diradicaloids have received growing attention due to the characteristic resonance structures between open-shell and closed-shell forms that lead to unique properties such as low energy bandgap and strong intermolecular spin–spin interaction. Therefore, in recent years, vast efforts have been devoted to investigate the synthesis, structure and fundamental properties of diradicaloids. However, the electronic applications of diradicaloids still remain in an early stage. Only a few diradicaloids have already found their place in electronic devices. In this perspective, we summarize the recent development of electronic applications of stable diradicaloids. The challenges and opportunities of stable diradicaloids for future electronic applications are also discussed.