A way to intentionally change the curvature of bent molecules using a polymer and ultraviolet light

A team of researchers from the University of Oxford and Utrecht University has developed a way to change the curvature of bent molecules using a polymer and ultraviolet light. In their paper published in the journal Science, the group describes their process and possible uses for it. Maria Helena Godinho, with University NOVA of Lisbon, has published a Perspective piece in the same journal issue outlining the benefits of using curved elongated rods (molecules), also referred to as bent-core or banana-shaped molecules, when making chiral liquid crystalline phases—and also outlines the work done by the team in this new effort.