Organic radicals in single-molecule junctions

The discovery of air-stable organic radicals has sparked interest in their applications in molecular electronics and spintronics. These radicals possess open-shell electronic structures, offering unique electrical characteristics and serving as a versatile platform for spintronics on account of their weak spin-orbit coupling and hyperfine interactions. Additionally, radicals exhibit distinctive properties valuable for constructing supramolecular devices through dimerization, molecular recognition, and mechanical interlocking. This review highlights the applications of air-stable organic radicals in electronics, inspiring molecular design by emphasizing their remarkable electric and magnetic capabilities. It also provides an overview of advances in research related to production methods and properties reliant on supramolecular radicals, broadening the scope of single-molecule investigations. The involvement of radicals in single-molecule reactions is also discussed. Future developments in this field and additional uses for stable radicals are also anticipated. By illuminating the potential of these compounds, this Review contributes to the advancement of molecular electronics and spintronics research.