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SYMM: Bio- and macromolecules at work - from motor proteins to soft actuators

SYMM 1: Symposium Bio- and macromolecules at work - from motor proteins to soft actuators

SYMM 1.3: Hauptvortrag

Mittwoch, 26. März 2003, 15:30–16:00, ZEU/160

Single Molecule Opto-Mechanical Cycle — •Hermann E. Gaub, G. Neuert, T. Hugel, N. Holland, A. Cattani, L. Moroder, and M. Seitz — LMU München, James-Franck-Str. 1, Garching 85747

Light powered molecular maschines are conjectured to be essential constituents of future nanoscopic devices. As a model for such systems we have synthesized a polymer of bistable photosensitive azobenzes. Individual polymers were investigated by single molecule force spectroscopy in combination with optical excitation in total internal reflection. We were able to optically lengthen and contract individual polymers by switching the azo groups between their trans and cis configuration. The polymer was found to contract against an external force acting along the polymer backbone, thus delivering mechanical work. As a proof of principle the polymer was operated in a Otto-like cycle demonstrating for the first time the opto-mechanical energy conversion of a single molecule device.