Light‐Driven Flipping of Azobenzene Assemblies—Sparse Crystal Structures and Responsive Behaviour to Polarised Light

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Abstract
For creation of autonomous microrobots, which are able to move under conditions of a constant environment and a constant energy supply, a mechanism for maintenance of mechanical motion with a capacity for self‐control is required. This requirement, known as self‐organisation, represents the ability of a system to evade equilibrium through formation of a spatio‐temporal pattern. Following our previous finding of a self‐oscillatory flipping motion of an azobenzene‐containing co‐crystal, we present here regulation of the flipping motion by a light‐receiving sensor molecule in relation to the alignment and role of azobenzene molecules in crystals. In the anisotropic structure, a specific azobenzene molecule acts as a reaction centre for the conversion of light to a mechanical function process, whereas the other molecules act as modulators for spatio‐pattern regulation. The present results demonstrate that autonomously drivable molecular materials can exhibit information‐responsive, self‐sustainable motion by incorporating stimulus‐responsive sensors.
Funding Information
  • Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JP18H05423, JP17H05247)
  • Precursory Research for Embryonic Science and Technology (JPMJPR13K6)

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