Advances in functional photoisomerisable low-molecular-weight π-gelators

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Supramolecular Chemistry
• Photochemistry

Background:

• Low-molecular-weight gelators (LMWGs) self-assemble via noncovalent interactions.
• Photoresponsive gelators incorporate photochromic groups for light-induced structural changes.
• Photoisomerisable π-gelators utilize moieties like azobenzene for reversible trans-cis isomerization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically assess the design principles and structural characteristics of photoisomerisable π-gelators.
• To review the mechanisms and sol-gel behavior of these gelators under UV-vis light irradiation.
• To explore the potential applications of photoresponsive gelators in various fields.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of photoresponsive π-gelators.
• Analysis of design strategies for incorporating photochromic moieties.
• Assessment of structure-property relationships governing gelation and photo-switching.

Main Results:

• Photoresponsive gelators offer tunable control over gel-sol phase transitions using light stimuli.
• Photoisomerisation of moieties like azobenzene enables reversible changes in gel properties.
• These materials show promise for applications in sensors, actuators, remediation, and drug delivery.

Conclusions:

• Photoisomerisable π-gelators represent a versatile class of smart materials with external light control.
• Further development is needed for next-generation programmable, light-controlled materials.
• The review highlights key advancements and future directions in the field.