n and p type character of single molecule diodes

Looking for single molecule electronic devices, we have investigated the charge transport properties of individual tetra-phenylporphyrin molecules on different substrates by ultrahigh-vacuum scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy and by first-principles calculations. The tetra-phenylporphyrins with a Co atom (Co-TPP) or 2 hydrogens (H(2)-TPP) in the central macrocycle when deposited on Cu(3)Au(100) substrates showed a diode-like behavior with p and n type character, respectively. After removing the central hydrogens of H(2)-TPP molecule with the STM tip an ohmic behavior was measured. The rectifying effect was understood from the theoretical point of view by assuming for Co-TPP HOMO conduction and for H(2)-TPP LUMO conduction, both selectively elected by the hybridization of states between molecule and substrate surface.