All-Visible Wavelength-Gated Multistate Photochromic AIEgen: High-Efficiency Photocyclizations in a Single Luminogenic System

Abstract Synthetic photochromic molecules that enable noninvasive orthogonal control using distinct wavelengths of light are still in their infancy, yet ensuring the independence of photoreaction pathways and multiple addressable states in a single luminogenic system remains a formidable challenge. Herein, we report an aggregation-induced emission (AIE) luminogen capable of undergoing wavelength-selective photocyclizations under visible-light irradiation, exhibiting a photorearrangement at 410 nm purple light and an oxidative photocyclization at 465 nm blue light to yield two stable yet distinct photochromic states. Experimental and theoretical results provide insight into the wavelength-dependent reaction pathways, as well as the corresponding synergistic mechanism of aromaticity, steric strain, and inductive effect in its photocyclizations. Eventually, a model information encryption system was developed to showcase its practical potential for all-visible-light-controlled multistate operations. This work thus offers both a viable strategy and a versatile structural motif for developing visible-light-controlled multistate luminogens and advanced multifunctional systems.