Click-together azobenzene dendrons: Synthesis and characterization

We synthesized 1,2,3-triazole-linked azobenzene dendrons of four generations. No protection-deprotection approach was needed during the generation development via click reaction. The photoisomerization of azobenzene dendrons was Studied using UV-vis spectra. The cis isomers of these dendrons were more stable than trans isomers in the dark; however, the cis isomers could be quickly converted to trans forms under visible light exposure in seconds. The trans form could change to cis form reversibly by UV irradiation as well.