Co-cross-linked lanthanide-containing nanocomposite luminescent hydrogels

Abstract

Luminescent hydrogels have gained widespread attention in smart devices and sensors, because of their flexibility, functional versatility and excellent optical properties. Herein, we report the construction of a clay–polymer hybrid luminescent hydrogel with co-cross-linked networks via in situ polymerization of N-isopropylacrylamide (NIPA) in the presence of two types of cross-linker, LAPONITE® (Lap) and lanthanide complex, endowing the obtained hydrogel with excellent mechanical strength and luminescent performance. By varying the molar ratio of lanthanide ions, the luminescent colors of the hydrogel can be tailored. Moreover, due to the thermoresponsiveness of the PNIPA, the luminescence intensity of the hydrogel can be regulated reversibly.