BEDT-TTF Template Crystallization with Use of an Electron Donor Molecule with Dodecanethiol

Organic conductors and superconductors based on charge-transfer salts, such as (BEDT-TTF)2X [BEDT-TTF = bis(ethylenedithio)tetrathiafulvalene or ET], exhibit a wide variety of interesting phenomena that would be useful in numerous sensor and electronic applications. Unfortunately, there has been difficulty in creating thin, patterned films of these materials, which would be required for any potential application. In an effort to resolve this problem, a BEDT-TTF-like compound with a dodecanethiol chain has been synthesized and characterized. The application of this new compound in the templating of ET patterned films through the use of microcontact printing and dip-pen nanolithography is currently under investigation. In addition, an ET salt pattern has also been prepared through the use of a general hydrophilic surface derivatization method. Preliminary results will be discussed with particular attention paid to the success of pattern reproduction and identity of the templated species, as well as how these issues will affect future research directions.