Vibronic spectroscopy of individual molecules in solids

Spectroscopic selection and detection of individual molecules in the solid state provide a means of eliminating the inhomogeneous broadening that is a ubiquitous feature of condensed phase molecular spectra. Over the past few years the feasibility and utility of several types of electronic spectroscopy have been demonstrated at the single-molecule level. This article briefly summarizes that work and describes our recent extensions into the realm of single-molecule vibrational spectroscopy. This promising technique should allow much more detailed probing of the local environment of individual chromophores, particularly in highly disordered solids such as polymers and glasses. © 1994 American Chemical Society.