Crosstalk-Free Patterning of Cooperative-Thermoresponse Images by the Synergy of the AIEgen with the Liquid Crystal.

Abstract

Patterning multiple images within a single element without crosstalk can significantly increase the information capacity and security. Yet, it still remains challenging to enable the response capability in each image. Herein, we successfully demonstrate the patterning of crosstalk-free yet cooperative-thermoresponse images (e.g., holographic and fluorescent images) by deliberately designing a liquid crystal (LC)/AIEgen system with a unique synergy. The AIEgen's fluorescence intensity is found to be well controlled by the LC while the LC's phase transition is in turn promoted by the AIEgen. The fluorescent image contrast is significantly boosted by efficient energy transfer (Φ ET: 96%) from the LC to the AIEgen. We further unveil that the AIEgen's photocyclization for fluorescent patterning occurs in a zero-order kinetic manner and can be completed within several minutes when assisted by the LC. The photocyclization conversion is proven to be quantitatively dependent on the aggregation size: α ~ exp(-d), and able to reach as high as 98%.