Electrically switchable photoluminescence of fluorescent-molecule-dispersed liquid crystals prepared via photoisomerization-induced phase separation

A novel α-cyanostilbenic derivative, (Z)-2-(4-aminophenyl)-3-(4-(dodecyloxy)phenyl) acrylonitrile, is reported, wherein a Z–E isomerization process is accompanied by a remarkable decrease in compatibility with liquid crystals. Accordingly, fluorescent-molecule-dispersed liquid crystals have been prepared through a photoisomerization-induced phase separation method. The photoluminescence can be repeatedly switched by an electric field. Modulating the excitation light offers a new technique to explore electrically controllable photoluminescence.