Disequilibrating azobenzenes by visible-light sensitization under confinement

• DOI: 10.1126/science.adh9059
• Publication Date: 2023-09-21T17:59:47Z
• Authors: Julius Gemen; Jonathan R. Church; Tero-Petri Ruoko; Nikita Durandin; Michał J. Białek; Maren Weißenfels; Moran Feller; Miri Kazes; Magdalena Odaybat; Veniamin A. Borin; Rishir Kalepu; Yael Diskin-Posner; Dan Oron; Matthew J. Fuchter; Arri Priimagi; Igor Schapiro; Rafal Klajn
• Keywords: Photoexcitation; Photostationary state; Metastability; Ultraviolet light

Photoisomerization of azobenzenes from their stable E isomer to the metastable Z state is basis numerous applications these molecules. However, this reaction typically requires ultraviolet light, which limits applicability. In study, we introduce disequilibration by sensitization under confinement (DESC), a supramolecular approach induce E-to-Z isomerization using light desired color, including red. DESC relies on combination macrocyclic host and photosensitizer, act together selectively bind sensitize E-azobenzenes for isomerization. The lacks strong affinity expelled host, can then convert additional state. way, host-photosensitizer complex converts photon energy into chemical in form out-of-equilibrium photostationary states, ones that cannot be accessed through direct photoexcitation.