One-dimensional carbon chains free of end-capping groups

Article excerpt

Nature Chemistry, Published online: 30 June 2026; doi:10.1038/s41557-026-02203-9 Isolation of one-dimensional linear atomic carbon chains without bulky end groups is challenging. Now, the transmetallation of linear carbon fragments from Au(I) precursors gives Au|Cn|Au junctions, with the carbon chain directly attached to the electrodes. Chains of 12 or more carbon atoms show bond equalization towards a cumulene ⋯C=C=C=C⋯ valence structure with enhanced charge transport.