Solar-powered mechanical motion of crystals
This technology describes crystals made from a tetrahedral isocyanoazobenzene copper complex, which can convert broad spectrum white light, including sunlight, into continuous mechanical motion.
Unmet Need: Photoactive material that converts safe visible light into mechanical work
Direct conversion of solar energy into mechanical motion is a more efficient method as compared to multistep green energy sources and can be achieved through the cis-trans isomerization of azobenzene. However, this movement is limited in range and typically requires harmful ultraviolet light as the irradiation source.
The Technology: Crystals that convert sunlight into continuous mechanical motion
These crystals are comprised of a tetrahedral isocyanoazobenzene copper complex that can roll continuously with no mechanical fatigue, photobleaching, or slowing, under broad spectrum light irradiation. The motion can be controlled by adjusting the light wavelength. The crystals can be easily synthesized and customized using inexpensive commercially available materials and existing manufacturing techniques. This technology demonstrates the ability to achieve direct conversion of solar energy to physical motion using easily-accessed molecular systems.
Applications:
- Solar energy harvesting
- Solar or visible light controlled microdevices
- Biomotors with controllable motility
- Flexible electronics
- Microfluidic movement control
- Soft robots
- Solar-driven photoresponsive materials
Advantages:
- Direct conversion of solar energy into mechanical energy
- Intensity-dependent
- No mechanical fatigue, photobleaching, or slowing
- Simple manufacture from commercially available materials
- Inexpensive
- Customizable by laser cutting or microfabrication
Lead Inventor:
Patent Information:
Patent Pending
Related Publications:
Tech Ventures Reference:
IR CU22086
Licensing Contact: Greg Maskel