The world’s first molecular engine with positive and negative rotation

Engineers have long envisioned a single-molecule motor that could revolutionize the field of molecular-scale machinery. However, creating such a device has proven to be an immense challenge. Recently, a team of researchers from France and Ohio State University has made a breakthrough by developing the first molecular engine capable of rotating both clockwise and counterclockwise. Christian Joachim, one of the lead scientists on the project, emphasized that building a working molecular engine requires a completely new approach, one that moves away from traditional macro-scale designs.

The molecular engine measures just 1 nanometer in height and 2 nanometers in width. At its core is a rotor with five iron spokes, one of which is slightly shorter and becomes visible during rotation. This tiny machine operates using a quantum mechanical phenomenon known as inelastic electron tunneling. In this process, electrons directed at the molecule lose some of their energy as they pass through, and the resulting vibrations cause the rotor to turn. Remarkably, the engine can still function at temperatures as low as -316 degrees Fahrenheit.

To test its performance, a scanning tunneling microscope was used to stimulate different parts of the molecular engine. Researchers discovered that they could control the direction of rotation by focusing energy on specific areas. For instance, targeting the longer spokes caused the rotor to spin counterclockwise, while directing energy toward the shorter spoke resulted in a clockwise rotation. Joachim explained that this engine is more than just a concept—it's a step forward in understanding how single-molecule motors can work.

Looking ahead, the research team aims to achieve two key objectives. First, they plan to connect the engine to a nanoscale gear system, and second, to integrate it into a nano-sized molecular car, allowing it to serve as a power source. These developments could pave the way for future advancements in nanotechnology and molecular machines, bringing us closer to a world where microscopic devices operate with precision and efficiency.

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