Artificial molecular machines: Design and observation

Abstract

Abstract Natural molecular machines have inspired the development of artificial molecular machines, which have the potential to revolutionize several areas of technology. Artificial molecular machines commonly employ molecular switches, molecular motors, and molecular shuttles as fundamental building blocks. The observation of artificial molecular machines constructed by these building blocks can be highly challenging due to their small sizes and intricate behaviors. The use of modern instrumentation and advanced observational techniques plays a crucial role in the observation and characterization of molecular machines. Furthermore, a well‐designed molecular structure is also a critical factor in making molecular machines more observable. This review summarizes the common methods from diverse perspectives used to observe molecular machines and emphasizes the significance of comprehending their behaviors in the design of superior artificial molecular machines.

Keywords

• artificial molecular machines
• mechanically interlocked molecules
• molecular motors
• molecular switches
• supramolecular chemistry