Supramolecular artificial light-harvesting systems incorporating aggregation-induced emissive components: from fabrication to efficient energy conversion

Abstract

The harvesting and utilization of light energy have increasingly captivated researchers. The construction of artificial light harvesting systems (ALHSs) through supramolecular assemblies has emerged as a prominent approach. Following the discovery of the aggregation-induced emission (AIE) phenomenon, AIE luminogens (AIEgens) have been extensively employed to develop ALHSs, in which these molecules are assembled into nanoparticles or nanoaggregates to enhance energy transfer efficiency. In this review, we summarize recent research advances in supramolecular ALHSs based on AIEgens, including some representative examples reported by our research group and others. In particular, different design strategies for ALHSs formed by self-assembly of host–guest complexes and other building blocks such as macrocyclic and amphiphilic molecules have been discussed over the past three years. For host–guest complexes with AIE activity, we analyze the design principles of AIE-active hosts or guests, and how their self-assembly influences the efficiency of ALHSs. For AIE-active macrocycles or amphiphiles that do not form host–guest complexes, we discuss how they can independently self-assemble into ALHSs. Finally, future research directions for the utilization of AIEgens in the development of ALHSs are discussed.