Fast polaron switching in degenerate molecular quantum dots

TL;DR

This paper demonstrates that fast, THz-range polaron switching in degenerate molecular quantum dots can be achieved, challenging the limitations of mean-field models and providing an exact solution for intrinsic molecular switching.

Contribution

It introduces an exact solution for molecular switching in degenerate quantum dots, surpassing the mean-field approximation limitations.

Findings

Fast switching up to 1 THz is theoretically possible.

Mean-field approach fails to accurately describe the switching.

Exact solution reveals intrinsic molecular switching mechanisms.

Abstract

Devices for nano- and molecular size electronics are currently a focus of research aimed at an efficient current rectification and switching. Current switching due to conformational changes in the molecules is slow, on the order of a few kHz. Fast switching on the order of 1 THz may be achieved, at least in principle, in a degenerate molecular quantum dot with strong coupling of electrons with vibrational excitations. We show that the mean-field approach fails to properly describe intrinsic molecular switching and present an exact solution to the problem.