Organic photofunctional materials composed of Azobenzene derivatives: Liquid–solid phase transition in multi Azobenzene compounds with partially substituted structures

Abstract

The light induced phase transition and reversible adhesive function were investigated for a range of D-mannitol derivatives partially substituted with multi-azobenzenes bearing free hydroxyl groups. Irradiation with UV and visible light induced liquefaction and solidification of the compounds, which adhered glass plates. Further, the adhesion force could be changed reversibly upon irradiation with light. Moreover, the adhesion forces were larger than those of the fully substituted compound.