Recent Advances in Clusteroluminescence

Clusteroluminescence is a phenomenon whereby the aggregation or clustering of non-conjugated electron-rich units leads to the emission of light at long wavelengths. This phenomenon was first discovered in poly(amido amine) (PAMAM) dendrimers. In recent years, clusteroluminescence has attracted growing research interest and its photophysical properties and mechanism have been thoroughly studied. In this review, we first briefly introduce the development of different types of clusteroluminogens. Then we highlight recent developments in clusteroluminescence, including mechanistic studies, the disclosure of room-temperature phosphorescence, and the extension of emission to the longer-wavelength region. Lastly, we demonstrate a few applications in various fields. With advantages such as being earth-abundant, biocompatible and biodegradable, clusteroluminogens are envisioned to be commonplace in the future.

Automated summary

Clusteroluminescence, a phenomenon caused by the aggregation of non-conjugated electron-rich units, has attracted increasing research interest in recent years. The latest developments in this phenomenon include mechanistic studies, the disclosure of room-temperature phosphorescence, and the extension of emission to longer wavelengths. With advantages such as abundant resources, biocompatibility, and biodegradability, clusteroluminogens are expected to be widely used in various fields in the future.