Multicolor luminescent supramolecular hydrogels based on cucurbit[8]uril and OPV derivative

Abstract

Supramolecular hydrogels have received considerable attention because of their various fascinating applications. Herein, an alkyl chain-modified oligo(p-phenylenevinylene) (Py-OPV) derivative was synthesized. When assembled with cucurbit[7]uril, its fluorescence intensity was enhanced without any change in color. However, the molecules underwent J-type dimerization when encased in the cavity of cucurbit[8]uril, which possessed different emission properties based on the monomer. By simply changing the concentration of cucurbit[8]uril, the fluorescence properties of the assemblies were easily altered. In addition, luminescent supramolecular hydrogels were constructed with Py-OPV and cucurbit[8]uril based on the photopolymerization of acrylamide. By embedding the assembly in the polymer to confine it, hydrogels emitting various tones of blue light were easily constructed. The preparation method of such luminescent hydrogels provides a new reference method for the construction of specific luminescent materials.