Dendrimers as Multielectron Storage Devices

Dendrimers are complex, repeatedly branched tree-like compounds that can be synthesized with well-defined composition and a high degree of order. Incorporation of redox-active units in a dendritic architecture enable us to gain information on: (i) dendrimer structure and superstructure; (ii) self-assembly processes; (iii) degree of electronic interaction and communication between redox units located in different sites; (iv) changes in conformation brought about by electron transfer processes. Electroactive dendrimers are attracting increasing interest in view of their possible application as sensors, catalysts, enzyme mimics, in which a redox centre is buried inside the dendritic nanoenvironment, and, last but not least, multielectron storage devices.