DIPC Community Seminars: Molecular Assembly and Reactivity Triggered by Br-Functional Groups

DIPC Community Seminars

Intermolecular and interface interactions significantly influence molecular properties and functionality. While this field of investigation has been extensively studied over the last decades, the molecular functionalization with halogen atoms constitutes a more recent area of research. Halogen atoms, among which stands out bromine, constitute a unique class of functional end groups. These are capable of driving molecular assembly into ordered structures stabilized by multiple synergistic non-covalent interactions. These weak yet highly directional interactions are crucial for diverse fields including chemistry, biology, and crystal engineering. Conversely, halogens can promote strong reactivity and catalysis, which is relevant in materials science, leading to the synthesis of selective nanostructures. This dual capability—engaging in weak interactions that stabilize structures and strong interactions that drive reactivity—illustrates the versatile role of halogens in material science.
Understanding the physicochemical mechanisms that govern these interactions opens up new perspectives for developing advanced materials for diverse potential applications, where precise control over molecular interactions is crucial. In this presentation, I will briefly overview our recent findings on Br-functionalized molecules on different supporting substrates, obtained in collaboration with scientists at DIPC.