The importance of second sphere interactions on single molecule magnet performance

Owing to their potential applications in areas such as information storage, molecular spintronics, and quantum computing among others; the field of single molecule magnets (SMMs) has experienced a surge of interest and advances. One aspect of these systems that is often overlooked is the effect that second-sphere interactions can have on the magnetic performance and viability of SMMs. This review focuses on SMMs that display significant secondary interactions which influence magnetic performance, and highlights the importance of considering these interactions in the design of future SMMs. Secondary interactions occur beyond the primary coordination sphere and can influence the performance of single molecule magnets (SMMs). This article highlights the role that secondary interactions play in the synthesis and performance of SMMs.