Room Temperature Phosphorescence Driven by Mechanochromism

Molecules exhibiting phosphorescence emission, with variation in its emission wavelength or intensity upon external mechanical force, are known as a phosphorescent mechanochromic materials (PMC). This review focuses on the development of organic mechanophosphorescent molecules and their emission in response to a mechanical stimulus, which can be used as smart materials in the field of luminescent switches, mechanosensors, security papers, data storage, and biological applications. In addition, the review provides clear understanding of underlying mechanism, exploring how the intermolecular interactions, crystal packing and suitable molecular design facilitate the RTP enhancement. The disruption of intermolecular interactions or crystal packing by external stimuli such as mechanical force, results in either RTP on/off or after glow intensity change. In the present review, the recent progress in the organic mechano-phosphorescent molecules have been highlighted along with mechanism and molecular design.