Langmuir–blodgett films for electronic applications

Abstract The present status of research on Langmuir‐Blodgett (LB) films is outlined in relation to specific properties for electronic applications. The fundamentals of LB films are briefly described such as preparation techniques, film types, structure, and suitable compounds for functional amphiphiles, unconventional film‐forming materials and polymers. Stress is laid on novel functional LB films exhibiting either photochemical and thermal reactivity, or electroactive properties such as electrical conduction, redox activity, electrochromism, nonlinear optical properties, and pyroelectric activity. The current status of LB films with regard to electronic applications is described, e.g. as photo‐ or e‐beam resists, information storage systems, barrier layers, chemisensors, frequency converters and modulators, optical switches, guided wave structures or infrared sensors. Prospects for future molecular electronic devices are also briefly discussed.