Role of Hydrogen Transfer in Functional Molecular Materials and Devices.

Hydrogen transfer is a fundamental chemical process critical to the design and application of organic molecules and functional devices. By uncovering the dynamic interactions between atoms within molecules, hydrogen transfer research offers innovative pathways for creating advanced functional materials and devices. These advancements have driven progress in areas such as optoelectronics, molecular switches, and bioimaging. This review explores the various forms of hydrogen transfer, including hydrogen atom, proton, and hydride transfer, highlighting their mechanisms and key reactions. It also examines the integration of these processes into molecular devices, including single-molecule systems, molecular films, and organic frameworks. Future directions emphasize precise control of hydrogen transfer pathways, development of highly selective and efficient reaction systems, and the design of robust devices based on these processes. These efforts aim to enhance device performance and broaden applications in intelligent materials, integrated functions, and information technology.