Submission Date

7-18-2025

Document Type

Paper- Restricted to Campus Access

Department

Chemistry

Faculty Mentor

Ryan Walvoord

Comments

Presented during the 27th Annual Summer Fellows Symposium, July 18, 2025 at Ursinus College.

Project Description

Azo compounds, commonly known for their bold colors, are seen in many dyes, as well as pharmaceutical and optical materials. One interesting aspect of azocompounds is the ability to switch configurations under UV light, essentially functioning as a light-controlled “switch.” These azoswitches have applications in imaging, lasers, sensors, and energy transfer. By altering the structural compound on either “end” of the azo unit, the characteristics of the compound and its photoisomerization properties may be altered. This research utilizes a simple condensation reaction to create a variety of novel heterocyclic azo compounds, which are then characterized via ultraviolet-visible and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopies for their photoisomerization properties. Specifically, the absorbance required for isomerization and thermal relaxation rate half-life will be investigated. Ultimately, this project will further understanding of azoswitches and their capabilities to function as a light activated switch.

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