Browse by author
Lookup NU author(s): Professor Thomas Penfold
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (CC BY 4.0).
The dissymmetric interaction between circularly polarised (CP) light and chiral molecules is central to a range of areas, from spectroscopy and imaging to next-generation photonic devices. However, the selectivity in absorption or emission of left-handed versus right-handed CP light is low for many molecular systems. In this Perspective, we assess the magnitude of the measured chiroptical response for a variety of chiral systems, ranging from small molecules to large supramolecular assemblies, and highlight the challenges towards enhancing chiroptical activity. We explain the origins of low CP dissymmetry and showcase recent examples in which molecular design, and the modification of light itself, enable larger responses. Our discussion spans spatial extension of the chiral chromophore, manipulation of transition dipole moments, exploitation of forbidden transitions and creation of macroscopic chiral structures; all of which can increase the dissymmetry. Whilst the specific strategy taken to enhance the dissymmetric interaction will depend on the application of interest, these approaches offer hope for the development and advancement of all research fields that involve interactions of chiral molecules and light.
Author(s): Greenfield JL, Wade J, Brandt JR, Shi X, Penfold TJ, Fuchter MJ
Publication type: Article
Publication status: Published
Journal: Chemical Science
Year: 2021
Volume: 12
Issue: 25
Pages: 8589-8602
Online publication date: 21/05/2021
Acceptance date: 20/05/2021
Date deposited: 21/05/2021
ISSN (print): 2041-6520
ISSN (electronic): 2041-6539
Publisher: Royal Society of Chemistry
URL: https://doi.org/10.1039/D1SC02335G
DOI: 10.1039/D1SC02335G
Altmetrics provided by Altmetric
