UV and X-ray dual-induced photochromism in a benzophenone-based metal–organic framework for inkless erasable printing

Abstract

The exploitation of photo-responsive metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) is important in the field of optical switching, advanced detection, and molecular machines. However, it remains challenging due to the heavy dependence on conventional organic photochromic molecules. Herein, a novel photochromic MOF based on benzophenone units, [Zn₄(μ₂-O)(μ₃-O)(cdip)₂(DMF)]_n (H₄cdip = 5,5′-carbonyldiisophthalic acid) (1), has been successfully synthesized. Compound 1 exhibits instant and reversible photochromic behavior under 365 nm UV and X-ray irradiation through the radical formation of benzophenone units. Furthermore, the fluorescence of 1 can be reversibly modulated during the photochromic process. The excellent stability and reproducibility make it suitable for inkless erasable printing paper.