Anion Sensors as Logic Gates: A Close Encounter?

Computers have become smarter, smaller, and more efficient due to the downscaling of silicon‐based components. Top‐down miniaturisation of silicon‐based computer components is fast reaching its limitations because of physical constraints and economical non‐feasibility. Therefore, the possibility of a bottom‐up approach that uses molecules to build nano‐sized devices has been initiated. As a result, molecular logic gates based on chemical inputs and measurable optical outputs have captured significant attention very recently. In addition, it would be interesting if such molecular logic gates could be developed by making use of ion sensors, which can give significantly sensitive output information. This review provides a brief introduction to anion receptors, molecular logic gates, a comprehensive review on describing recent advances and progress on development of ion receptors for molecular logic gates, and a brief idea about the application of molecular logic gates. The field of information technology is developing significantly—ever since the first computer was invented they have become smaller and more efficient due to downscaling of the electronics. However, top‐down miniaturisation of silicon‐based components is reaching its limits, whereas a bottom‐up approach using organic molecules could be an excellent substitute to further downscale the electronic components. Thus, anion‐induced logic gates might be fundamental step towards such downscaling.