Spatially resolved work-function manipulation of azobenzene-functionalized self-assembled monolayers by optical stimulation

Strongly differing static dipole moments of the trans and cis isomers of photochromic azobenzene allow for optical switching of the work function of azobenzene-functionalized self-assembled monolayers (SAMs). We apply these properties in a fundamental experiment to manipulate the area size of the switched SAM. Azobenzene molecules were excited by ultraviolet laser illumination, and the transient isomerization profile of the SAM was spatially resolved recording photoemission electron microscopy images. Thereby, we demonstrate the spatial tuning of the SAM's work function and discuss the role of the laser spot profile in generating sharp edges or gradual changes of the work function.