Organic-inorganic hybrid materials with photomechanical functions

In this chapter, organic-inorganic hybrid photomechanical materials are described. Photoresponsive siloxane-based hybrids with lamellar structures are formed by self-assembly of azobenzene-modified alkoxysilanes. Photoinduced bending/curling motions of the lamellar films have been observed. Other organic-inorganic hybrids such as azobenzene-intercalated layered inorganic compounds and azobenzene-carbon nanocomposites with photomechanical functions are also introduced. These hybrid materials have higher thermal stability and mechanical strength compared to conventional organic materials, which is promising for practical applications.