Spin-filter effect demonstrated in an organic molecule

Researchers from the University of Arizona and the University of Kaiserslautern demonstrated how organic molecules interact with the magnetic electrode in so-called spintronic devices. Organic Spintronics is interesting because organic semiconductors have several advantages as they can be manufactured cheaply and can be processes at low temperatures.

Using ultra-fast, time-resolved measurements probing the interface between an organic semiconductor and a magnetic metal, the researchers showed that spin controls the time an electron stay trapped in the molecule. This shows that the organic molecule interacts with the magnetic electrode in a spin-dependent way. This is called a spin-filter effect.