Exploring the time-dependent and wavelength-guided tunable binary and ternary logic behaviours of a charge-transfer probe†

This study presents the development of a novel time-dependent logic behaviour system and a state-of-the-art inter-switchable ternary molecular logic system, comprising 3-input INHIBIT and 3-input TRANSFER logic gates driven by elementary chemical interactions. The absorption spectra of the probe molecule underwent versatile time-dependent changes upon the individual and simultaneous addition of two analytes, namely F⁻ and CN⁻, leading to alterations in the logic behaviour observed at both the 295 nm (from AND to TRANSFER) and 400 nm bands (from OR to INHIBIT). Additionally, we explored the creation of wavelength-guided molecular logic systems that leverage reversible (F⁻ and H₂O) and irreversible (CN⁻ and H₂O) chemical interactions. By employing CN⁻ and H₂O as dual chemical inputs, we derived binary TRANSFER, 2-input PASS 0, and binary COMPLEMENT logic gates based on the opto-chemical responses at 295 nm, 400 nm, and 500 nm, respectively. Lastly, we introduced an innovative inter-switchable ternary molecular logic system, involving 3-input INHIBIT and 3-input TRANSFER logic gates, using F⁻, CN⁻, and H₂O as ternary chemical inputs, capitalizing on the probes' versatile and distinct absorption responses at varying wavelengths (400 and 295 nm, respectively).