Tetrazine-based electrofluorochromic windows: Modulation of the fluorescence through applied potential

A series of new electrofluorescent switches was prepared using electroactive fluorescent tetrazines, an original family of molecules featuring both highly stable reduced anion-radicals and fluorescence in the neutral state. The cells were prepared with four layers: the tetrazine polymer film, a photo cured polymer electrolyte film, and two indium-tin oxide films as the two contact electrodes. When externally biased, the fluorescence of the tetrazine fluorophore can be switched on and off reversibly, according to its redox state through scanning the potential between two transparent ITO electrodes. Electrochromism of a tetrazine containing conducting polymer has also been examined. (C) 2008 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.