Self-assembly of organic dyes in supramolecular aggregates

Photochem Photobiol Sci. 2016 Aug 31;15(9):1103-1114. doi: 10.1039/c6pp00221h. Epub 2016 Aug 18.

Abstract

Many scientists probably consider dye aggregation in solution a curse. Here, the adjective "many" should be stressed, as some other researchers thrive on forcing dyes to aggregate in solution. This perspective paper is certainly not meant to be a comprehensive review on the topic. However, for people intrigued by this pervasive phenomenon, I will try to offer a general picture on the self-assembly of dyes into supramolecular aggregates by presenting and discussing key information on their thermodynamics, kinetics, and optical changes. More recent topics will be introduced, such as the impact of external stimuli on dye aggregation, with a particular focus on ion specific effects. Finally, aggregation-induced emission will also be examined.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Coloring Agents / chemical synthesis*
  • Coloring Agents / chemistry
  • Kinetics
  • Macromolecular Substances / chemical synthesis*
  • Macromolecular Substances / chemistry
  • Optical Phenomena
  • Thermodynamics

Substances

  • Coloring Agents
  • Macromolecular Substances