Macromolecular Rapid Communications
Macromolecular Rapid Communications
5 years ago

Light-Switchable Azobenzene-Containing Macromolecules: From UV to Near Infrared

Light-Switchable Azobenzene-Containing Macromolecules: From UV to Near Infrared
Si Wu, Philipp Weis
Azobenzene-containing macromolecules (azo-macromolecules) such as azobenzene-containing polymers (azopolymers) and azobenzene-functionalized biomacromolecules are photoswitchable macromolecules. Trans-to-cis photoisomerization in conventional azo-macromolecules is induced by ultraviolet (UV) light. However, UV light cannot penetrate deeply into issue and has a very small fraction in sunlight. Therefore, conventional azo-macromolecules are problematic for biomedical and solar-energy-related applications. In this Feature Article, the strategies for constructing visible and near-infrared (NIR) light-responsive azo-macromolecules are reviewed, and the potential applications of visible- and NIR-light-responsive azo-macromolecules in biomedicine and solar energy conversion are highlighted. The remaining challenges in the field of photoswitchable azo-macromolecules are discussed. Gently switch it! Trans-to-cis photoisomerization in conventional azobenzene-containing macromolecules is induced by ultraviolet (UV) light. However, UV light is problematic for biomedical and solar-energy-related applications. We review the strategies for the construction of visible- and near-infrared light-responsive azobenzene-containing macromolecules, highlight the potential applications of these macromolecules, and discuss the remaining challenges.

Publisher URL: http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/resolve/doi

DOI: 10.1002/marc.201700220

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