Photoresponsive Crystals with Bio-mimetic Functions
摘要
Reversible topographical changes due to the crystal growth of photogenerated isomers are observed on a photochromic diarylethene microcrystalline film surface by alternate irradiation of UV and visible light. These phenomena are attributed to the self-aggregation of photogenerated isomers (open- or closed-ring isomers) of the diarylethenes from the eutectic mixtures of both isomers by UV or visible light irradiations. The shapes of the grown crystals are dependent on the crystal habits of both isomers. By leveraging these phenomena, we prepared surfaces mimicking the microstructures of the lotus leaf with its double roughness structures and the termite wing with its dual wettability. Then, we designed an object transportation system made from vertically arranged diarylethene crystals mimicking the Cilia ofParamecium aurelia. Focusing on photosalient phenomena, specifically the photoinduced scattering of the crystal into small pieces, we prepared a crystalline system mimickingImpatiens. Thus prepared crystals with hollow or capsule structures break into small pieces with the inclusions scattering upon UV irradiation.