A perspective on combining molecular nanomagnets and carbon nanotube electronics

We present the promising perspectives offered by the combination of carbon nanotube-based electronics and molecular nanomagnetism. The transport properties of carbon nanotubes are first described, with particular attention to the working principles of two devices that can be expected to play a major role in merging the two fields. We then detail the fabrication steps needed for nanotube-based devices that shall be considered when developing strategies for hybrid devices. Finally, we discuss the possible chemical routes to the creation of molecular nanomagnets/carbon-nanotube hybrid devices, highlighting the fundamental requirements for the creation of working systems and for the observation of spin effects on the transport properties of carbon nanotubes.