Photomechanical Structures Based on Porous Alumina Templates Filled with 9-Methylanthracene Nanowires

9-Methylanthracene (9MA) undergoes a concerted [4 + 4] photodimerization in its crystal form that can be harnessed order to generate photomechanical motions such as bending, twisting, and expansion. As described this paper, 9MA nanowires were grown anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) templates with the goal of using expansion net increase height composite disk. The growth conditions optimized raise filling amount from 28% 77% available volume porous AAO. A new experimental method for detecting motion, based on analysis data dynamically misaligned Michelson interferometer, was developed. Template bending observed, showing confined generated mechanical work, but no conclusive evidence surface disruption or vertical translation observed. Optical measurements, well atomic force scanning electron microscopy, showed incomplete filling, orientation, debris template polishing likely prevented observation actuation these nanocrystal composites. This work highlights some practical challenges are involved creating actuators organic–inorganic approach, two most significant being (1) uniform organic active material (2) removal excess template’s surface.