Slippery Photoswitchable Fluorescent Coatings for Reconfigurable Information Encryption and Underwater
Shun He1,2, Yong Tian1,2, Fucheng Zhang2
1Sanya Institute of Hunan University of Science and Technology, Sanya, Hainan, China.
Chemistry, an Asian Journal
|March 31, 2026
Summary
Researchers developed slippery photoswitchable fluorescent coatings (SPFCs) for underwater anti-counterfeiting. These coatings offer reconfigurable information encryption with reversible color switching and antifouling properties.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Chemistry
- Optics
Background:
- The growing marine economy necessitates advanced underwater anti-counterfeiting solutions.
- Current methods lack universal integration of anti-counterfeiting technologies with slippery coatings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop novel slippery photoswitchable fluorescent coatings (SPFCs).
- To enable reconfigurable information encryption and robust underwater anti-counterfeiting labels.
Main Methods:
- Integration of green fluorescence dye (ANA) and photochromic spiropyran derivative (ASP) into polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS)-based slippery coating.
- Utilizing Michael addition for material synthesis.
- Employing photo-induced fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) for reversible color switching.
Main Results:
- SPFCs exhibit reversible fluorescence switching between green and red triggered by light.
- The oil-infused PDMS coating provides excellent antifouling properties.
- Achieved high contrast, fast photo-response, photo-reversibility, and processability.
Conclusions:
- SPFCs offer a promising platform for reconfigurable information encryption.
- The developed coatings are suitable for advanced underwater anti-counterfeiting applications.
- The simple preparation and remoldability enhance their practical utility.
