Azobenzene-containing supramolecular polymer films for laser-induced surface relief gratings

We have synthesized a new azobenzene compound hexahexanoyl 4,4'-dimelaminoazobenzene (He-Diazine-Azo) with self-complementary quadruple hydrogen bonds. The azobenzene in He-Diazine-Azo can undergo trans-cis photoisomerization efficiently. Using such a building block, we prepared azobenzene-containing supramolecular polymer films based on multiple hydrogen bonds. In addition, it is found, interestingly, that surface relief gratings can be laser-induced on such azobenzene-containing supramolecular polymer films. The supramolecular polymer films can keep good stability until 100 degrees C.