Photomechanical behavior triggered by [2 + 2] cycloaddition and photochromism of a pyridinium-functionalized coordination complex

Abstract

Photoinduced bending behavior triggered by [2 + 2] cycloaddition of a photoactive complex has been successfully achieved, accompanied by photochromic and fluorescence changes that provide convenience for long-distance observation of photomechanical motion. The key design feature is based on the introduction of flexible methylene groups and cation–π interactions. Moreover, the potential application in photomechanical devices was reflected by bending and supporting force experiments on the complex composite film, which is of increasing importance especially in soft actuators and robots.