Photochromic materials: more than meets the eye.
Photochromic materials are a family of compounds which can undergo reversible photo-switches between two different states or isomers with remarkably different properties. Inspired by their smart photo-switchable characteristics, a variety of light-driven functional materials have been exploited, such as ultrahigh-density optical data storage, molecular switches, logic gates, molecular wires, optic/electronic devices, sensors, bio-imaging and so on. This review commences with a brief description of exciting progress in this field, from systems in solution to modified functional surfaces. Further development of these photo-switchable systems into practical applications as well as existing challenges are also discussed and put in prospect.
Key Laboratory for Advanced Materials and Institute of Fine Chemicals, East China University of Science & Technology, Shanghai 200237, P. R. China.
Junji
J
Zhang
Qi
Q
Zou
He
H
Tian
D003116:Color; D006801:Humans; D050866:Liquid Crystals / Q000737:chemistry; D009930:Organic Chemicals / Q000737:chemistry*; D055668:Photochemical Processes; D013499:Surface Properties; D013876:Thiophenes / Q000737:chemistry
D009930:Organic Chemicals; D013876:Thiophenes