Dynamic single crystals: kinematic analysis of photoinduced crystal jumping (the photosalient effect)

Abstract

Crystals on the move: If they are subjected to a strong light stimulus, crystals of the cobalt coordination compound [Co(NH3)5(NO2)]Cl(NO3) undergo sudden jumps and leap over distances 10(2)-10(5) times their own size to release the strain that accumulates in their interior. The first quantitative kinematic analysis of this phenomenon is reported. The observed effect could be employed for actuation on the macroscopic scale.

Keywords: actuators; biomimetic materials; isomers; jumping crystals; mechanical effects.