Here we present the critical role of the molecular structure and reaction parameters on the nature of thin-film growth, using a versatile two-step assembly method with organic and metal-organic chromophores cross-linked with palladium. It was found that the polypyridyl complexes exhibit exponential growth, whereas, under identical conditions, the organic systems exhibit linear behavior. The internal film morphology plays a pivotal role in the storage and usage of the palladium, where a more porous structure results in exponential growth. Interestingly, through proper tuning of the reaction conditions, the growth of the molecular assemblies can be controlled, resulting in a changeover from exponential to linear growth. These findings unequivocally demonstrate the importance of both the internal film structure and deposition conditions on the assembly of molecular-based films.

Here we report the first use of self-propagating molecule-based assemblies (SPMAs) as efficient electron-transporting layers for inverted organic photovoltaic (OPV) cells. P3HT-PCBM cells functionalized with optimized SPMAs exhibit power conversion efficiencies approaching 3.6% (open circuit voltage = 0.6 V) vs 1.5% and 2.4% for the bare ITO and Cs(2)CO(3)-coated devices, respectively. The dependence of cell response parameters on interlayer thickness is investigated, providing insight into how to further optimize device performance.

Flip‐flopping away: Multivalue random access memory can be achieved using electrically addressable Os2+‐based multilayers. The controllable optical properties of the multilayers allow the construction of memory devices that are able to store up to five different states that depend on the given electrical inputs (see picture). The functions of the devices can be represented by sequential logic circuits that are equivalent to flip‐flop and flip‐flap‐flop devices.

The highly active Friedel-Crafts alkylation (FCA) catalyst, [Ir(COD)Cl(SnCl3)(SnCl4)(arene)]+Cl- (1-SnCl4), is easily generated in one-pot from [Ir(COD)Cl]2 or [Ir(COD)(mu-Cl)Cl(SnCl3)]2 (1) and SnCl4. The reaction of arenes, heteroarenes with benzyl, and allyl alcohols is promoted by 1-SnCl4 (1 mol %) with high turnover frequency. Kinetic evidence is presented to establish FCA pattern. From dual-catalyst combination studies varying the transition metal and main group metal partner, the efficiency of the present catalysts is attributed to the electrophilic "IrIII-SnIV" core.