Functionalization of Molecular Architectures

Low-dimensional compounds are molecules that correspond to various shapes such as rod, ladder (one-dimensional compounds), and sheet (two-dimensional compounds). They are ordinarily found in electromagnetic fields. Recently, versatile low-dimensional compounds were proposed for use as components of various functional materials. These new-class low-dimensional compounds contribute significantly to industrial/material sciences.

Molecular architecture consisting of low-dimensional compounds can also be found in the natural world. One example is cell cytoskeleton, which is a network- or bundle-like architecture consisting of rod-like protein assemblies. The cell accomplishes its motility by structural transition of the cytoskeleton—that is, phase transition of the architecture of low-dimensional compounds in response to some stimuli induces shape changes in cells. Another example is nacre, which is composed of layered aragonite platelets, usually metastable CaCO3 polymorph. The layered inorganic platelets give nacre its stiffness and noncombustibility. Thus, the molecular architecture of low-dimensional compounds in natural life contributes to their functionality.