These are
small-molecule liquid crystals (LCs) gelled either by a covalent or a
self-assembled azobenzene-containing network. We explore the reversible
trans-cis photoisomerization of azobenzene to add new functionalities to these
materials. In particular, we are interested in using them as optical materials
to record diffraction gratings that can be controlled either by an electric
field or light (optical control of optical materials or properties).
Representative publications:
“Dual-Mode Switching of Diffraction Gratings Based on Azobenzene
Polymer-Stabilized Liquid Crystals” Advanced Materials, 2004,
in press.
“Light-Induced
Reorganization in Self-Assembled Liquid Crystal Gels: Electrically
Switchable Diffraction Gratings” Advanced Materials, 2003, 15,
1431-1435.