Abstract

Reversible photochromic compounds have the ability to reversibly change its color when it absorbs photons of a particular wavelength. This process of color change is a consequence of structural changes within the compound, such as cis-trans photo-isomerization. Some examples of photochromic compounds are spiropyrans, spirooxazines, diarylethenes and azobenzenes. These compounds have been extensively studied for decades, and are used in various applications such as biomedicine, chemical sensors and harvesting solar energy. However, majority of photochromic compounds are initially activated by ultraviolet (UV) light. The use of UV light is harmful for biological applications and photo-degrade the compound over repeated use. To overcome these limitations, a new class of reversible photochromic compound was introduced, called metastable-state photoacid (mPAH). In brief, mPAH is a photochromic compound which can photo-dissociate its protons under visible light and can thermally re-capture the released protons efficiently in the dark. Based on this unique property, in this research, we (1) synthesized different mPAH, and (2) studied and characterized their physicochemical (acidity, kinetics, and optical) properties. Additionally, we (3) applied different visible light activated mPAHs towards light controllable polymeric-based ion-selective optodes for detection of calcium ions and sodium ions, and modulate fluorescence with pH. The research presented herein opens new avenues towards the synthesis of mPAH derivatives and could be applied to any proton-transfer process related applications which requires wireless controllability with high sensitivity.

Notes

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Graduation Date

2019

Semester

Fall

Advisor

Chumbimuni Torres, Karin

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)

College

College of Sciences

Department

Chemistry

Degree Program

Chemistry

Format

application/pdf

Identifier

CFE0007849

URL

http://purl.fcla.edu/fcla/etd/CFE0007849

Language

English

Release Date

December 2019

Length of Campus-only Access

None

Access Status

Doctoral Dissertation (Open Access)

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