ERA NanoSci - Nanoscale Optical-toMechanical Energy Conversion: Coupling Nano-Object with Light Powered Molecular Lifters

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We aim to demonstrate that is possible to move vertically and horizontally nano-objects by coupling them to photoactive self assembled monolayers (SAMs) of “light powered molecular cargo lifters”. Molecular rods incorporating azo units and organized in SAMs, undergo efficient photoisomerization, producing cooperative molecular movements able to express a controlled mechanical work. By integrating the expertises of different research groups, we intend to harness the force expressed by azo SAMs, in order to i) move vertically nano-particles sitting on the azo SAMs, and ii) move laterally nano-particles, by sweeping across the surface patterns formed by alternating cis and trans isomers. The patterns are generated by periodic interference gratings. The experimental data will be interpreted with the help of theoretical models. This work can lead to results relevant for short term application in moving nano-objects in three dimensions.