Spatial structuring of a supramolecular hydrogel by using a visible-light triggered catalyst.

Spatial control over the self-assembly of synthetic molecular fibers through the use of light-switchable catalysts can lead to the controlled formation of micropatterns made up of hydrogel structures. A photochromic switch, capable of reversibly releasing a proton upon irradiation, can act as a catalyst for in situ chemical bond formation between otherwise soluble building blocks, thereby leading to fiber formation and gelation in water. The use of a photoswitchable catalyst allows control over the distribution as well as the mechanical properties of the hydrogel material. By using homemade photomasks, spatially structured hydrogels were formed starting from bulk solutions of small molecule gelator precursors through light-triggered local catalyst activation.