Molekylenes

Molekylenes are a term used in speculative chemistry to describe discrete, finite assemblies of atoms designed to act as a single molecular unit while exhibiting features associated with nanoscale materials. The concept emphasizes a defined atom count and geometry and is not uniformly standardized in the literature, appearing mainly in theoretical and early experimental discussions.

They may take linear, cyclic, cage, or polyhedral geometries and rely on covalent or coordination bonds to maintain integrity. By varying composition and topology, chemists seek to tune electronic properties, producing stable units that can serve as modular building blocks for larger assemblies.

Synthesis strategies include bottom-up chemical methods, templating, and on-surface or solution self-assembly. Achieving precise size control and minimizing defects remain central challenges.

Characterization uses mass spectrometry, NMR, IR, and X-ray or electron microscopy when feasible, often aided by computational modeling to predict stability and electronic structure.

If realized, molekylenes could enable molecular electronics, catalysis, sensing, or energy applications as defined units that interface with larger nanosystems. Current work is exploratory, spanning theory, proof-of-concept experiments, and nascent synthetic efforts.

Related topics include molecular clusters, nanoarchitectures, and oligomer chemistry.