This work shows that the length of flexible spacers in azobenzene (Azo)-based polymers is crucial for achieving room-temperature photoliquefaction (i.e., UV light-induced solid‒liquid phase transition). By adjusting the length of dithiol-functionalized flexible spacers, the melting temperature (Tm) of Azo polymers can be effectively modulated. Incorporating longer spacers decreases the Tm to a temperature achievable by the photothermal effect of Azo molecules, thus enabling photoliquefaction of Azo polymers at room temperature.
- Yujin Kang
- Donguk Kim
- Changyeon Lee