Photoswitchable Dynamicity in Azobenzene-Based Elastomers while Maintaining Mechanical Robustness
발표자
이민우 (서울대학교 화학부)
연구책임자
강지형 (서울대학교)
초록
내용
We introduce a physically crosslinked elastomer system (PolyAzo) featuring sterically hindered azobenzene molecules, capable of reversible photoswitching of dynamic mechanical properties while preserving mechanical robustness. Unlike conventional azobenzene-based materials that exhibit phase transitions such as solid-to-liquid transitions, PolyAzo leverages trans-to-cis isomerization within the solid state to modulate mechanical responses without disrupting the crosslinked domain. The photoisomerization process enhances molecular mobility within the physically crosslinked domains, resulting in increased stress relaxation and energy dissipation under mechanical force. This photoinduced dynamic crosslinked domain significantly improves the overall mechanical properties such as toughness upon UV irradiation. Notably, PolyAzo exhibits self-healing behavior with UV exposure, demonstrating its ability to dynamically repair mechanical damage while maintaining structural integrity.