Multiresponsive chromogenic systems operated by light and electrical inputs

Abstract

In the framework of supramolecular chemistry, a three component system constituted by Fe³⁺/Fe²⁺, crystal violet lactone (CVL) and a spiropyran (SPI) leads to three coloured states, cyan, magenta and yellow, as well as a transparent state, each independently addressable by light and electrical input. The system profits from fine speciation Fe³⁺/Fe²⁺ complexes with CVL and SPI. Redox stimulus operates the metal, leading to different coloured complexes (ionochromism), while light stimulus operates the SPI component (photochromism).