TTF-PTM dyads: from switched molecular self assembly in solution to radical conductors in solid state

© The Royal Society of Chemistry. Organic donor-acceptor (D-A) systems formed by the electron-donor tetrathiafulvalene (TTF) linked to the electron-acceptor perchlorotriphenylmethyl (PTM) radical through different π-conjugated bridges exhibit interesting physical properties such as bistability in solution or conductivity in solid state. Understanding the interplay between intra- and intermolecular charge transfer processes in solution is of high interest in order to rationalize the self-assembling ability and conducting properties of such dyads in solid state. In this Highlight we examine the self-assembling properties of different TTF-π-PTM radical dyads that have potential applications as molecular switches or conductors in the field of molecular electronics.