Photosynthesis mimics as molecular electronic devices

Abstract

As illustrated in this brief survey, the field of artificial photosynthesis has developed to the point where molecular scale photovoltaics giving high quantum yields of long-lived, energetic charge separated states can be designed using the principles governing natural photosynthesis, and then synthesized and studied. In contrast to the large progress in this area, the study of how to incorporate such devices into electrical circuits is still in its infancy. Finally, these same principles may be employed in the design of relatively sophisticated optoelectronic switches and logic elements. Although only a few prototypes have as yet been reported. The field is ripe for further development.