π-Conjugated molecules with an even number of π-electrons usually have a closed-shell ground state. However, recent studies have demonstrated that a certain type of molecules could show open-shell singlet ground state and display diradical-like (diradicaloid) behavior. Their electronic structure can be understood in terms of the “diradical character” and “aromaticity” concepts. They display very different electronic properties from traditional closed-shell π-conjugated molecules and could be used as next-generation molecular materials.

This book provides a comprehensive review on the chemistry, physics, and material applications of open-shell singlet diradicaloids. Particularly, it elaborates the fundamental structure–diradical character–electronic property relationships both theoretically and experimentally. The book has been written by leading scientists in the field from Japan, Germany, Spain, Italy, China, and Singapore.