A practical guide to measuring and reporting photophysical data

Abstract

Research on photoluminescent compounds is common in inorganic chemistry journals like Dalton Transactions, and as applications related to luminescent devices, energy conversion, and photoredox catalysis gain and hold prominence, reporting on the photophysical properties of inorganic compounds will become increasingly prevalent. The accessibility, ease-of-use, and throughput of many modern instruments make it simple for most researchers to acquire data, although recognizing common issues and properly reporting the data can involve a significant learning curve. In this tutorial review, we introduce a systematic guideline on how to properly measure, analyze, and report key photophysical data, including UV-vis absorption and photoluminescence (PL) spectra, PL quantum yield (Φ_PL), and PL lifetime (τ). In addition to detailed protocols, we outline common pitfalls to avoid, tips to improve data quality, and suggestions to ensure data is correctly and accurately reported when submitting for publication. We intend this tutorial to serve as a useful resource for new and experienced researchers aiming to produce reliable and high-quality photophysical data.