Photon upconversion through triplet-triplet annihilation can convert low energy photons from non-coherent, low-power light sources into higher energy photons. As such, TTA-UC can be used in a variety of applications, most notably photovoltaic devices. However, for such applications mechanically robust materials with high glass transition temperatures (<i>T</i><sub>g</sub>) are preferred. Currently, upconversion efficiencies in these rigid materials are low due to poor solubility of required chromophores and inefficient energy transfer between sensitizer and emitter molecules. In this work, we utilize well known epoxy-amine chemistry to covalently incorporate chromophores into a mechanically robust polymer matrix. Synthesis of functionalized 9,10-diphenylanthraene derivatives and their UC performance in conjunction with palladium octaethylporphyrin (PdOEP) in solution are presented. The preparation of epoxy-amine networks containing PdOEP and covalently incorporated emitters are outlined. Chromophore concentrations were systematically varied and direct and upconverted fluorescence measurements are presented. The reactive strategy used to incorporate the functionalized DPA molecules allows for high chromophore concentrations to be realized with limited undesirable effects from aggregation and self-quenching. Optimal design parameters for this quick, cost-effective method of making glassy materials capable of TTA-UC are discussed.

Triplet-Triplet annihilation upconversion in epoxy-amine networks

253rd National Meeting (2017)

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