Versatile BODIPY dyes for advanced optoelectronics: random lasing, harmonics generation, and OLED application

Abstract

Organic optoelectronic materials are advancing rapidly, opening new possibilities for the design of efficient and multifunctional photonic systems. While most studies on boron-dipyrromethene (BODIPY) derivatives have focused on biomedical and sensing applications, their potential in advanced optoelectronics remains largely unexplored. Furthermore, previous reports have typically addressed single functionalities rather than integrated performance across diverse photonic regimes. Here, we introduce three newly synthesized BODIPY derivatives that demonstrate remarkable versatility as optically active materials. We demonstrate their nonlinear optical (NLO) activity through both second and third harmonic generation, supported by quantum chemical calculations. Moreover, these dyes exhibit strong amplified spontaneous emission and efficient random lasing without the need for external resonators, along with excellent photostability and compatibility in liquid crystalline and polymer matrices. Additionally, organic light-emitting diode (OLED) devices incorporating BDPs showed light emission, suggesting potential for further investigation. By combining stimulated emission, NLO, and OLED perspectives in one class of emitters, we provide a rare example of multifunctional organic materials. This versatility positions BODIPY dyes as promising candidates for integrated photonics and scalable optoelectronic technologies.