Single Molecule Magnets in the Spotlight - Dynamics of Photoexcited SMMs

To gain insights into the interplay of magnetic and optical properties is essential for the development of the next generation of molecule-based quantum technologies. Applications include the use as optical qubits in information processing and in high-density data storage devices. Molecules predestined for such applications are Single Molecule Magnets (SMMs).[1]
To understand the details of the effect of light on magnetic complexes, it is necessary to study the magnetic signature and assess the effect of magnetic fields on the electronic behaviour on multiple timescales from femtoseconds to seconds after photo-excitation. For this a multi-technique approach is necessary combining findings from techniques such as transient absorption spectroscopy under applied magnetic fields, high-frequency/high-field EPR and Mössbauer spectroscopy which operate on nanosecond timescales as well as SQUID magnetometry under continuous light irradiation.[2]
In particular 3d-4f SMMs have been identified as promising candidates for such investigations since the combination of the two types of ions gives complementary advantages. Thus, highly modifiable tetranuclear complexes with the well-known butterfly motif were chosen for a systematic study to unravel these fundamental aspects of the interaction between magnetism and electromagnetic radiation.[3]