In situ study of self-assembly and photo-controllable ion conduction of supramolecular membranes

Previously, we have designed a series of wedge-shaped amphiphilic molecules with a hydrophobic rim and a focal hydrophilic sulfonate group that can self-assemble into supramolecular columns, forming ion channels. With the increase of relative humidity, 1D channel morphology transforms into a bicontinuous cubic structure, while the ion mobility remarkably increases. In the present work, we will study the process of photo-controllable formation of ion channels in the thin films of the wedge-shaped molecules with introduced photochromic groups including azobenzene and diarylethene. The effect of external conditions on ability of those materials to form nano-channels with photo-sensitive conductivity will be analysed. Finally, the supramolecular structures will be arrested in thin films by polymerization of acrylic groups at the periphery. The ion conducting performance of thin films during photo-switching and polymerization will be investigated in situ with specially designed setup.