Development of Luminescent Solution Blown Spun Nanofibers from Recycled Polyester Waste Toward Dual-mode Fluorescent Photochromism

Photochromism is an interesting approach to improve the anticounterfeiting of various commercial commodities. To introduce a transparent anticounterfeiting nanocomposite, it has been crucial to enhance the engineering processing of the anticounterfeiting materials. In this context, we introduce highly phosphorescent rare-earth aluminate nano-sized particles (REAN)/recycled polyester waste (PET) nanofibrous films by solution blowing spinning for anticounterfeiting purposes. The composite nanofibers demonstrated UV-motivated photochromic anticounterfeiting performance. To warranty the translucent property of REAN@PET, it is necessary to immobilize REA in the nano-sized form for an improved dispersion without agglomeration in the polyester nanofibrous bulk. Various nanofibers films of diverse emission characteristics were developed employing various ratios of REAN. Transmission electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction were utilized to determine the morphology of REAN to demonstrate diameters of 4-9 nm. The energy-dispersive X-ray analysis, infrared spectra, X-ray fluorescent analysis, elemental mapping, and scanning electron microscope were employed to study the morphologies, optical transmittance, elemental contents, and mechanical properties of the prepared photo-induced chromic nanofibers. The nanofiber diameter in the REAN@PET film was reported in the range of 180-220 nm. The REAN@PET nanofibrous film demonstrated an excitation band at 365 nm in association with an emission band at 519 nm. The solution blown spun REAN@PET nanofibrous films showed an improved superhydrophobicity with raising the REAN content. When excited under UV supply, the transparent nanofibers showed a rapid and reversible dual-mode fluorescent photochromism to green without fatigue. The present anti-counterfeiting films can be reported as a simple and effective approach to build versatile materials to introduce an ideal marketplace with economical and community benefits at low-cost.

Automated summary

Photochromic anticounterfeiting nanofibrous films were prepared using highly phosphorescent rare-earth aluminate nanoparticles and recycled polyester waste. The films showed rapid and reversible fluorescent photochromic properties, as well as good dispersion and superhydrophobicity.