Work

The Effects of Network Architecture on the Photomechanical Performance of Azo-Acrylate Liquid Crystal Elastomers

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Azo-containing liquid crystal elastomers are photomechanical materials that can be actuated via illumination. The photomechanical response is a result of the photoisomerization of the azo moiety, which produces bulk stresses in the material. These stresses arise via two distinct and competing mechanisms: order parameter change induced stress and direct contractile stress. We describe thermomechanical and photomechanical experiments aimed at assessing the relative contributions of these. We show that the details of the attachment of azo dyes to the network can greatly influence the photoresponse. We discuss our results and summarize our findings.

Source: Crystals

DOI: 10.3390/cryst15010001

Authors: Anastasiia Svanidze, Sudarshan Kundu, Olena Iadlovska, Anil K. Thakur, Xiaoyu Zheng, Peter Palffy-Muhoray

Institution: Kent State University

Language: English

Topic: Advanced Materials and Mechanics

Subfield: Mechanical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,955

Funders: Multidisciplinary University Research Initiative, Office of Naval Research