Mirror image nanostructures of new chromogenic azobenzene gels by introduction of alanine moiety

The morphological control and the self-assembled behaviors of new chromogenic azobenzene gels by the introduction of alanine moiety were analyzed. These gels formed through intermolecular hydrogen-bonds, π-π stacking, and hydrophobic interaction in various organic solvents. In particular, formation of intermolecular hydrogen bonds in the alanine unit plays an intrinsic role in their fiber self-assemblies along with an efficient gelation. The results show that the alanine-appended chromogenic gelators are not only effective in gelation but also useful as a component of functional soft materials.