X-ray induced visible luminescence of porphyrins

A concept has been presented whereby X-ray irradiation can be used to induce visible luminescence of chromophores such as porphyrins. The essential aspects of the idea have been demonstrated in a supramolecular assembly consisting of a water-dispersed polystyrene latex with an embedded scintillating compound, 2,5-diphenyloxazole, and an externally attached hematoporphyrin. X-ray excitation of the assembly yields an emission spectra typical for hematoporphyrin with fluorescent yields of up to 3% with respect to 2,5-diphenyloxazole emission. Significant quenching in the presence of dioxygen indicates that singlet oxygen is formed at atmospheric conditions.