Brilliant triboluminescence in a potential organic–inorganic hybrid ferroelectric: (Ph3PO)2MnBr2

Abstract

Ferroelectrics with luminescent properties are promising candidates for the next generation of optical waveguides and displays. However, reports on ferroelectrics with triboluminescence properties have been very scarce so far. In this study, we demonstrate a potential hybrid molecular ferroelectric, (Ph₃PO)₂MnBr₂, which exhibits intense green triboluminescence. Using piezoresponse force microscopy, the presence of ferroelectric domains in (Ph₃PO)₂MnBr₂ thin films is confirmed. We also show evidence for the reversible switching of the ferroelectric domains by poling with DC biases. We believe that this combination of ferroelectricity and triboluminescence will bring about potential multifunctional optoelectronic device applications.