Luminescence switch based on the acid/base induced reversibility of covalent bonds in lanthanide(iii) complexes

We report an exceptional example of Tb(iii) luminescence switching using a reversible covalent bond. The antenna and quencher moieties attached to a ligand of a Tb(iii) complex undergo acid/base-driven exchange based on the reversible formation of a hemiaminal ether structure to achieve on-off regulation of luminescence.

Automated summary

In this study, a reversible covalent bond was utilized to achieve luminescence switching in a Tb(iii) complex, where the exchange between the antenna and quencher moieties attached to the ligand was driven by acid/base reactions. This resulted in the on-off regulation of luminescence through the formation of a hemiaminal ether structure.