Reconfigurable Multi‐Stimuli Responsive Smart Phosphorescent Polymer Composites with Time‐Dependent and Wavelength‐Dependent Phosphorescence Color Evolution

Abstract

ABSTRACT Developing smart systems based on phosphorescent materials that can control the time‐dependent phosphorescent color (TDPC) in response to external stimuli holds promise for advancing information encryption, but significant challenges remain. Herein, a facile strategy is proposed to construct smart phosphorescent polymer composites through immobilizing dual‐emission centers with distinct stimuli sensitivities within a soft‐rigid coupled hybrid matrix. The smart phosphorescent polymer composites show switchable phosphorescence between static phosphorescence and wavelength‐dependent dynamic TDPC, induced by multi‐stimuli (light, humidity, heat). The photoactivated phosphorescent composites transform from initial static monochromatic emission to dynamic multicolor TDPC through the synergistic effect of triplet oxygen depletion‐induced selective activation of the emission centers and the distinct decay rates of the dual‐emission centers. The evolution paths of TDPC also exhibit excitation‐dependence. Moreover, the photoactivated composites enable reversible switching between dynamic TDPC and monochromatic phosphorescence through water and thermal stimuli, due to the combined effects of water‐induced dissociation of the rigid hydrogen‐bonding network and differential quenching of the dual‐emission centers. The composites also exhibit recyclability and self‐healing capability. The processable smart phosphorescent polymer composites with good stability demonstrate outstanding potential in multi‐dimensional information encryption, opening up a new perspective for upgrading security technologies.