Molecules as actuators: toward the engines of molecular machines

Michael J. Marsella

doi:10.1117/12.432675

16 July 2001 Molecules as actuators: toward the engines of molecular machines

Michael J. Marsella

Proceedings Volume 4329, Smart Structures and Materials 2001: Electroactive Polymer Actuators and Devices; (2001) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.432675
Event: SPIE's 8th Annual International Symposium on Smart Structures and Materials, 2001, Newport Beach, CA, United States

Abstract

Herein we report the design, synthesis, and properties of novel electromechanical actuators based on organic polymers that are capable of redox-induced dimensional change at the molecular level. Specifically, this report will focus on regioisomers of poly(cyclooctatetrathiophene), and evidence of corresponding single molecule actuation. Cyclooctatetrathiophene has been calculated to undergo atom-to-atom dimensional changes of up to 10% upon redox switching. In theory, this distance change occurring within the repeat unit of the polymer can be translated into dimensional changes in both the single polymer chain and bulk material. As such, electromechanical actuation in this system is an intrinsic property of the individual chains, not a bulk property of the material. However, this translation varies as a function of both environment and regioisomer. Our ultimate goal of demonstrating single-molecule electromechanical actuation will be discussed herein.

Citation Download Citation

Michael J. Marsella "Molecules as actuators: toward the engines of molecular machines", Proc. SPIE 4329, Smart Structures and Materials 2001: Electroactive Polymer Actuators and Devices, (16 July 2001); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.432675

ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE

INSTITUTIONAL
Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.

SELECT YOUR INSTITUTION

PERSONAL
Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.

PERSONAL SIGN IN

No SPIE Account? Create one

PURCHASE THIS CONTENT

SUBSCRIBE TO DIGITAL LIBRARY

50 downloads per 1-year subscription

Members: $195

Non-members: $335 ADD TO CART

25 downloads per 1 - year subscription

Members: $145

Non-members: $250 ADD TO CART

PURCHASE SINGLE ARTICLE

Includes PDF, HTML & Video, when available