Localization of Spiropyran Activation.

Functionalization of planar and curved glass surfaces with spiropyran (SP) molecules and localized UV-induced activation of the mechanophore are demonstrated. Fluorescence spectra of UV-irradiated SP-functionalized surfaces reveal that increases in surface roughness or curvature produce more efficient conversion of the mechanophore to the open merocyanine (MC) form. Further, force-induced activation of the mechanophore is achieved at curved glass-polymer interfaces and not planar interfaces.