8. Conclusion

Without doubt, photocommutable molecules have enormous potential in many fields, from chemistry, physics and materials science, to biology and medicine. Azobenzenes are the best choice of photochrome when large geometric variations are desired. The significant structural reorganization associated with trans (E)/cis (Z) isomerization can be transferred and even amplified in a suitable host material, particularly in liquid crystals and liquid crystal elastomers due to the isomer's attractive mesogenic properties. This mainly leads to a mechanical modification as well as a change in the chemical and optical properties of the materials. Azobenzene-based photocommutable materials are generally considered for applications in photomechanical actuation and storage, among others. Another advantage of photochromic technology is the thermal stability of the two switching states and their high resistance...