Surface-tethered polymers are unique molecular architectures that have been recently used in advanced sensors, electronics and biomedical applications. However, techniques for characterizing these materials in their surface-tethered form remain limited. The incorporation of luminescent functionality into these materials has enabled new characterization methods, while also unlocking new applications in optoelectronics, stenography and sensing. Micron-scale photolithography techniques have recently enabled the preparation of high-resolution patterns, as well as architectures with unique photophysical properties. Herein, we provide an overview of the techniques used to prepare luminescent polymer brush materials and their applications in stimuli-responsive sensors, cell adhesion materials, and optoelectronics. We also provide our perspective on the promising future uses of surface-tethered polymers, as well as the short-term challenges and opportunities in the field.
Keywords: luminescence; photochemistry; polymers; sensors; surface chemistry.
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