Tokyo Institute of Technology Researchers Develop Eco-Friendly, Blue-Fluorescent Molecular Nanocapsules

July 12, 2012 01:00 PM EST By: Jennifer Rocha

Nanocapsules created through a simple mix of ‘green-environmentally friendly’ metal ions and bent organic blocks.

The fluorescent molecular nanocapsules have potential applications as sensors, displays, and drug delivery systems (DDS).

Michito Yoshizawa, Zhiou Li, and collaborators at Tokyo Institute of Technology (Tokyo Tech) synthesized ~1 nanometer-sized molecular capsules with an isolated cavity using green and inexpensive zinc and copper ions. In sharp contrast to previous molecular capsules and cages composed of precious metal ions such as palladium and platinum, these nanocapsules emit blue fluorescence with 80% efficiency.

This study is the first to show such emissive properties of molecular capsules bearing an isolated large cavity. The researchers believe their nanocapsules could have novel applications in devices such as chemosensors, biological probes, and light-emitting diodes.

 

  Subscribe to our mailing list, and we'll keep you posted of the latest developments.

RSS feed of TechConnect News™ RSS feed of TechConnect News™