Objective
Helical architectures are prevalent in natural and artificial settings due to their mechanical robustness, chiroptical properties, and ability to assemble compactly through intra- and intermolecular interactions. We propose that reversible distortions to these structures can unlock new behaviors. Inspired by recent advancements in supramolecular chemistry and light-responsive molecules, we aim to couple light-responsive units (LRUs) to helical structures to drive them out-of-equilibrium (OOE), thereby modulating their functionality and achieving photoactuation. Adopting organic and metal-organic spring-like model systems, we aim to achieve compression, extension, and complete unwinding of the helices under photoirradiation. In the OOE state, we hypothesize that the systems can store and release energy, making them promising candidates for optomechanical work and offering an alternative design strategy for molecular solar-thermal (MOST) materials. Furthermore, our approach enables the precise placement of LRUs within the helical structure, which is anticipated to provide customized optomechanical responses, such as bending and twisting, and allow new light-gated reactivity and feedback loops. Expanding this concept, we will explore larger, polymeric versions of these materials in bulk, such as films and fibers, to achieve light-powered translation, rotation, and lifting of objects. This fundamental study establishes a new research area focused on using LRUs to perturb discrete helical structures OOE, advancing the current approaches to perform mechanical work on the macroscopic level and presenting a novel design approach for MOST materials. Success will undoubtedly catalyze interest in exploring other helical architectures beyond the model systems studied here, achieving photoactuators of greater complexity in their operation and function.
Keywords
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Project’s keywords as indicated by the project coordinator. Not to be confused with the EuroSciVoc taxonomy (Fields of science)
Programme(s)
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
Multi-annual funding programmes that define the EU’s priorities for research and innovation.
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HORIZON.1.1 - European Research Council (ERC)
MAIN PROGRAMME
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Topic(s)
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Calls for proposals are divided into topics. A topic defines a specific subject or area for which applicants can submit proposals. The description of a topic comprises its specific scope and the expected impact of the funded project.
Funding Scheme
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
Funding scheme (or “Type of Action”) inside a programme with common features. It specifies: the scope of what is funded; the reimbursement rate; specific evaluation criteria to qualify for funding; and the use of simplified forms of costs like lump sums.
HORIZON-ERC - HORIZON ERC Grants
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Call for proposal
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
Procedure for inviting applicants to submit project proposals, with the aim of receiving EU funding.
(opens in new window) ERC-2025-STG
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Net EU financial contribution. The sum of money that the participant receives, deducted by the EU contribution to its linked third party. It considers the distribution of the EU financial contribution between direct beneficiaries of the project and other types of participants, like third-party participants.
KY16 9AJ ST ANDREWS
United Kingdom
The total costs incurred by this organisation to participate in the project, including direct and indirect costs. This amount is a subset of the overall project budget.