Fluorescent-Based Temperature Memory Reporter for Nanoscale Thermal Measurements

Herein, we report the development of a fluorescent material with temperature memory properties. Unlike previously developed systems which can only on single triggering point, conjugated polyelectrolyte-based sensor detects its exposure to wide range temperatures. To achieve this unique property, large poly(phenyl ethylene) (PPE-CO2) polyelectrolytes are destabilized and locked in more emissive configuration using amphiphilic polymer (polyvinylpyrrolidone PVP) when exposed heating. With decrease solution temperature, PVP hinders aggregation stiff bulky PPE-CO2 back original conformation leading weaker intramolecular stacked structure significantly enhanced radiative emission decay. The effect increased molecular weight concentration was independent viscosity. tested between 30 70 °C, it retained for at least 24 h. As proof concept, magnetic nanoparticles were heated an alternating field presence PPE-CO2/PVP sensor. These thermal measurements often challenging due interference traditional probes. signal measured 45 min after experiment able accurately maximum achieved during heating experiment.