Photocontrolled Reversible Conversion of Nanotube and Nanoparticle Mediated by β-Cyclodextrin Dimers

A photochemically interconvertible supramolecular nanotube–nanoparticle system was constructed through secondary assembling of self‐aggregates of amphiphilic porphyrin derivatives mediated by trans‐ and cis‐azobenzene‐bridged bis(permethyl‐β‐cyclodextrin). Significantly, these nanotubes and nanoparticles were able to interconvert upon irradiation at different wavelengths, and this photocontrolled morphological conversion is reversible and recyclable for tens of times, which will provide a feasible and convenient way to construct the ordered nanostructure with various morphologies that can be smartly controlled by the environmentally benign external stimulus. Photodriven interconversion: A photoswitchable supramolecular nanotube–nanoparticle system was constructed through secondary assembly of self‐aggregates of amphiphilic porphyrin derivatives (see picture). These nanoassemblies repeatedly interconvert upon irradiation at 365 and 450 nm.