Enlightening molecular logic: basics, tools and techniques for newcomers

Abstract

As silicon-based technologies approach their physical limits, the search for alternative computing paradigms becomes imperative. Molecular logic has emerged as a promising approach, particularly the systems based on trivalent lanthanide ions that exploit the unique photophysical properties of these ions to implement Boolean logic operations. This focus article provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles, methodologies, and recent advancements in luminescence-driven molecular computing. Designed for newcomers, it outlines the fundamental concepts, essential experimental techniques, and standardized protocols for characterizing luminescent molecular logic devices. The advantages of these devices, such as energy efficiency, multiplexing capabilities, and adaptability to complex environments, are also critically examined. Addressing some limitations of traditional electronics, molecular logic paves the way for innovative applications in diagnostics, sensing, and novel computational architectures, offering a transformative and sustainable pathway for next-generation information processing.