Molecular nanomagnets: The first 10 years

Abstract

We review here the main achievements reached in the field of magnetic molecules in the first 10 years of activity. After introducing the concept of magnetic molecules we report at some length on the archetypal Mn12Ac, pointing out what is understood and what is still left to do. Other systems will also be reported including Fe8 and Mn4. A section will be devoted to magnetic chains and a final section will give perspectives for future developments. © 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.