This review focuses on the recent developments on the photo-induced liquefaction and softening of azobenzene-based materials. The trans–cis photoisomerization of azobenzene units incorporated in molecular materials, polymers, and gels induces a variety of state changes such as solid–liquid, gel–sol, and glass–rubber transitions of those materials isothermally. Several novel applications such as reusable and environmentally friendly photoresists, reworkable adhesives, and self-healing materials can be expected using the photochemical liquefaction and softening.
- Takahiro Yamamoto
- Yasuo Norikane
- Haruhisa Akiyama
