Optical manipulation in liquid crystal including azobenzene molecules.

Photo chemical phase transition and trapping of micro object.

Abstract

Manipulation of micro objects using fluids has attracted a lot of attention because controlled motion of micro- / nano-sized objects on surface is an important step toward developing micro- / nano-machine. In this study, liquid crystalline(LC) films containing different nematic LC and photo-responsive azobenzene compounds were prepared, and micro particles were put on the LC films. UV or Visible light irradiation caused motion of micro particle. We discuss the trapping and manipulation of the micro particles.