On-demand fluorescence control via self-assembly of amphiphilic acridone trimers

Abstract

Self-assembly in aqueous media offers a promising strategy for the development of dynamic and adaptive materials. In this context, two new amphiphilic dicyanomethylenated acridone trimers have been synthesized and fully characterized. These molecules exhibit a reversible and tunable self-assembly behavior, forming spherical nanostructures in aqueous media. This self-assembly process is accompanied by distinct changes in their optical properties, remarkably an enhancement in fluorescence arising from restricted molecular torsion within the assembled structures. This study clearly demonstrates that crystalline-like properties can be achieved through solution-based self-assembly. Moreover, the length of the N-alkyl substituents on the acridone core plays a pivotal role in controlling both the self-assembly dynamics and the corresponding optical responses.