Electrically Powered Molecular Motors: A Conversation with Dr. Long Zhang

In this exciting episode, Dr. Long Zhang discusses his groundbreaking research on developing a molecular electric motor. The conversation explores the implications and potential of such technology, especially considering the vast influence of macroscopic electric motors on modern society.Dr. Zhang shares details about the construction of a molecular electric motor based on a [3]catenane, which involves two cyclobis(paraquat-p-phenylene) (CBPQT4+) rings powered by electricity to circumrotate unidirectionally around a 50-membered loop. The motor's design ensures that both rings perform highly unidirectional movement, guided by a flashing energy ratchet.The conversation deepens as Dr. Zhang explains the mechanism behind the unidirectional movement, powered by an oscillating voltage or external modulation of the redox potential. Although initial efforts on a homologous [2]catenane proved insufficient to support unidirectional movement, the incorporation of a second CBPQT4+ ring provided the necessary symmetry breaking.The significant achievement of Dr. Zhang's research lies in its waste-free operation, a unique aspect of these electric molecular motors. This development represents an essential stride towards the actualization of surface-bound electric molecular motors, holding potential implications for a range of technologies and industries.Key Words: Molecular Motors, Electric Motors, [3]Catenane, Cyclobis(paraquat-p-phenylene), Unidirectional Movement, Flashing Energy Ratchet, Oscillating Voltage, Redox Potential, Symmetry Breaking, Electrically Driven Circumrotatory Motion, Surface-Bound Electric Molecular Motors.Zhang, L., Qiu, Y., Liu, WG. et al. An electric molecular motor. Nature 613, 280–286 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-022-05421-6