Overview on the Recent Progress on Electrofluorochromic Materials and Devices: A Critical Synopsis

The phenomenon of electrofluorochromism occurs whenever the fluorescence of a material can be reversibly modulated, both in terms of intensity and color change, through the application of an electrical stimulus. Electrofluorochromic (EFC) materials have gained a great interest in the last decade, since they offer access to the development of different optoelectronic devices. Great efforts have been made to achieve highly performing EFC materials either as small organic molecules or as polymers. A critical overview of the most recent materials progress development is presented here, trying to guide the reader toward the most remarkable advancements in this field in the last years. This synoptic frame is completed by the recognition of the weak progress done on the development of the related EFC devices, which cannot be achieved without the identification of the most interesting applications. Among the many issues that are still open, it is necessary to correctly define the performance metrics for a suitable characterization of EFC materials and devices. Indeed, most of the published data are not homogeneous and the lack of standardized procedures really hampers a performance comparison among the various systems. Thus, standardized procedures are desirable and would allow for an easier transfer of this technology.