Through-space conjugation-based luminophores: toward redder and more efficient emitters.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Organic Chemistry
• Photophysics

Background:

• Conventional luminescent materials face limitations in achieving full-color and efficient emission, particularly in the red and near-infrared (NIR) spectrum.
• Through-space conjugation (TSC) in non-conjugated systems presents a promising alternative for developing novel luminophores.
• Challenges remain in realizing the full potential of TSC emitters for broad applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review rational design strategies for through-space conjugation (TSC) based emitters.
• To explore methods for achieving full-colour and highly efficient luminescence, particularly in red and NIR regions.
• To discuss the application of TSC emitters in diverse systems, including small molecules and polymers (clusteroluminogens).

Main Methods:

• Summarizing design strategies for small-molecule TSC emitters, including conformational regulation, through-space charge transfer, and heteroatom introduction.
• Analyzing macromolecular engineering approaches in polymer systems (polyesters, polyarylalkanes, polyurethanes) to enhance TSC.
• Reviewing existing literature on TSC-based luminophores and their performance characteristics.

Main Results:

• Rational design strategies enable widely tunable and highly efficient emission in small-molecule TSC emitters.
• Macromolecular engineering of polymers amplifies TSC, leading to full-colour and NIR luminescence.
• TSC-based materials demonstrate significant potential for applications in bioimaging and optoelectronics.

Conclusions:

• Through-space conjugation offers a viable pathway to overcome limitations in conventional luminescent materials.
• Advanced design strategies in both small molecules and polymers are crucial for achieving desired emission properties.
• Further research into TSC emitters holds promise for developing sustainable and high-performance materials for advanced technological applications.