Non-conventional luminescent π-organogels with rigid chemical structure

Abstract

Low-molecular-weight organogels (LMWGs) with π-conjugated structures typically exhibited excellent photoluminescent properties and held significant potential in optoelectronic materials, sensing, and detection applications due to their large specific surface areas and high sensitivity. Conventional organogelators usually contained multiple amide bonds and long flexible chains to facilitate gelation. In contrast, non-conventional π-conjugated organogelators lacked flexible chains, offering enhanced atomic economy. Furthermore, the suppression of non-radiative decay caused by the motion of flexible units could lead to higher emission efficiency. Notably, recent research indicated that rigid chemical structures were essential for achieving ultra-long room-temperature phosphorescence (RTP) in organogels. This review highlights the structures, photoluminescent properties, and applications of non-conventional LMWGs, and discusses future perspectives and challenges in this emerging field.