SCANNING-TUNNELING-MICROSCOPY OF INDIVIDUAL MOLECULES - BEYOND IMAGING

We discuss several concepts of handling molecule-adsorbent and hetero- molecular structures on an individual molecular basis. Molecular recog nition using scanning tunnelling microscopy underpins the fundamental progress made. ''Beyond imaging'' implies repositioning, patterning, a nd exploring the functionality of individual molecules. Using porphyri n-and fullerene-based systems, we discuss issues such as conformationa l analysis, supramolecular systems, patterning, and the fabrication of a molecular adding machine. These examples form the beginnings of a b ottom-up approach to fabrication and ''sciengineering'' from a molecul e-by-molecule perspective. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science B.V.