Writing with Light: Recent Advances in Optical Storage Property of Azobenzene Derivatives

Abstract

The mechanism of writing with light depends on photoisomerization ability of light sensitive compounds. The recent advances in photoisomerization phenomenon of azobenzene derivatives are explained on the basis of experimental evidence. Azobenzene derivatives have few limitations in optical storage when it comes to practical and industrial purpose. However, azobenzene derivatives have significant interests because of their excellent light sensitivity and isomerization properties. The fabrication of azobenzene films also plays an important role in the production of an optical storage device. The molecular level layer properties, writing and erasing can be tuned by modification of molecular structures. To explain the concept, writing with light needs high light sensitivity and long duration of thermal back relaxation property. Hence, tuning of thermal back relaxation in the storage process is mainly considered.