Photoresponsive self-assembly motions in polymer thin films

New developments in research of photoresponsive polymer thin film systems that exhibit new performances are reviewed. Topics introduced here involve surface photoalignment of mesostructured materials, photomechanical responses, photo-triggered efficient mass migrations, photoalignment and patterning of microphase separated nanostructures in block copolymers and preparation of surface-grafted photoresponsive polymers. Most of the systems utilize liquid crystalline materials and are designed as to exert cooperative self-assembling motions to provide uniform or patterned structures and orientations. These prototypes are anticipated to provide significant clues to create new smart responsive systems for the future science and technology of soft materials.