Azobenzene-based asymmetric bolaamphiphiles: Formation of LC phases with honeycomb structures and gels with helical structures

Abstract

Abstract Novel series of azobenzene-based T-shaped asymmetric bolaamphiphiles were synthesized, their self assembly behavior as well as photo-responsive behavior in their LC, solution and gel states were investigated. Such compounds can self-assemble into double wall triangular and square honeycomb mesophases in their bulk states and organogels with different morphologies in various solvents. Irradiation the gels with UV light generated gels with wrinkled structures. Co-assembly of these compounds with L-phenylalanine yielded organogels with obviously helical structures.The influence of azobenzene unit on the self assembly behavior were discussed and corresponding self-assembly models are supposed.