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Nature Chemistry (27 June 2008) | doi:10.1038/nchem.29

Photomechanics: Illuminating elastomers

Gavin Armstrong

Finding ways to use light as an energy source is becoming increasingly important because of the current energy issues faced by society. The use of photovoltaics, which convert light into electrical energy, is well known, but another route — the conversion of light directly into mechanical energy — could also be useful.