Photodegradation‐Induced Turn‐On Luminescence of Tetraphenylethylene‐Based Trithiocarbonate Polymers^†

Abstract

Main observation and conclusion Fluorescent intelligent materials have attracted wide attention because of their great potential applications. One major hurdle for the development and application of fluorescent intelligent materials is the aggregation‐caused quenching effect in the solid state. Herein, tetraphenylethylene‐based trithiocarbonate polymers with satisfactory molecular weights (Mw up to 24900) were synthesized through a one‐pot polymerization route under mild conditions. The polymers were non‐emissive due to the quenching effect of the trithiocarbonate group. However, upon UV irradiation, the polymers degraded and strong emission from the tetraphenylethylene unit was observed. Such a unique property endows them with great potential applications, such as photopatterning, anti‐counterfeit labels, and UV detection.

Emission‐Tunable Nanofluorophores through Self‐assembly of Amphiphilic Block Copolymers: toward Application in Cell Imaging

“…[ 16 ] The fluorescence enhancement effect was explained by the restriction of intramolecular motions. [ 17‐23 ] Based on this mechanism, a number of novel AIE fluorophores have been explored; however, most AIE fluorophores possess emission wavelengths in the visible range. Exploring fluorophores that emit NIR fluorescence and have excellent water solubility, photostability and biocompatibility is in high demand for biological applications.…”

Aggregation-Induced Emission Luminogens for Cell Death Research

“…In 2001, Tang found a photophysical phenomenon in which molecular aggregates exhibit stronger emission than single molecules, termed aggregation-induced emission (AIE). 20 , 27 , 28 Unlike ACQ fluorophores, AIE luminogens (AIEgens) show bright emission in the aggregate state. Researchers have proposed a variety of explanations for AIE phenomenon in different organic systems.…”

White-light emission from organic aggregates: a review

“…In addition, the solid-state form and high efficiency of AIEgens are beneficial to practical applications. [30][31][32][33] However, only a few compounds were reported as organic white-light emitters, and few general methods or strategies are constructed as the guidance for achieving solid-state white light. 34 Hence, it requires in-depth understanding of the principles and mechanisms behind photophysical behaviors of organic aggregates to generate white-light emission.…”