Efficient Molecular Solar Thermal Energy Storage in Self-Assembled Columnar Triethynylbenzene-Azobenzene Systems

Key Points

• This study aims to explore a self-assembled liquid crystal system for efficient molecular solar thermal energy storage.
• Developed a columnar hexagonal liquid crystal system
• Utilized tetra-ortho-fluoro azobenzene-functionalized triethynylbenzene
• Assessed photoisomerization efficiency under visible light
• Achieved ~80% E→Z photoisomerization at ambient temperature
• Demonstrated significant heat retention in the system