Side-chain dependent direct vs. indirect photoresponse in hydrazone-based supramolecular polymers

Abstract

The aggregate-to-aggregate photoconversion pathway, via monomers or not (indirect vs. direct), depends on a suitable balance between intermolecular interactions and accessible free space for isomerisation within the aggregate. We show that introducing fluorophilic interactions by side chain engineering in a hydrazone-based system can alter the photoconversion mechanism from indirect to direct, accompanied by distinct photophysical, morphological and mechanical changes.