Multistate circularly polarized luminescence switches based on dual stimuli-responsive chiral [2]rotaxanes

Aiming at the construction of novel multistate circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) switches, dual stimuli-responsive chiral [2]rotaxanes towards anions and light have been designed and constructed. Through the light-controlled on/off Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET) switching between the emissive stoppers and anion-induced controllable motions of the chiral wheel for the precise regulations of chirality information transfer from the chiral wheel to the emissive stoppers, precisely switching between four CPL emission states with varied emission wavelengths and dissymmetry factors has been successfully realized, making them a promising platform for practical uses such as information storage and encryption. This proof-of-concept study not only provides a novel design strategy for multistate CPL switching but also contributes excellent candidates for the construction of novel smart chiral luminescent materials.