Magic tetraphenylethene Schiff base derivatives with AIE, liquid crystalline and photochromic properties

Two novel aggregation-induced emission (AIE) active Schiff bases ( P4C12 and P5C12 ) harnessing excited-state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT) process derived from tetraphenylethylene 4-(dodecyloxy)-2-hydroxybenzaldehyde were reported. exhibits photochromism in original powder crystalline states . In contrast, powder, but totally different photochromic fluorescence properties its two polymorphs The reed leaf crystal P5C12-A very weak reversible behavior, while the small block P5C12–B emits relatively stronger without photochromism. Detailed investigations indicate that, packing styles result photoinactivation ways, accounting for photochemical photophysical properties. As molecules, show color changes upon UV light irradiation visible with good fatigue resistance , which makes them suitable data storage anti-counterfeiting materials. Moreover, shows anisotropic liquid texture, smectic phase. • tetraphenylethene base derivatives showing significant AIE property. states, polymorphs. •Moreover, is of