Building and Implementing a Comprehensive Chemistry Experiment Based on Cutting-Edge Research: Synthesis and Application of a Luminescent Iridium Complex

Abstract Guided by the idea of “research-led teaching”, this study turns advanced research on organometallic iridium complexes into a complete lab course for senior undergraduates. The course focuses on an ionic iridium complex modified with polyether and alkyl chains. The teaching module covers ligand synthesis, complex construction, structural characterization, photophysical studies, and fabrication of polymer-hosted phosphorescent films. These films are widely used in solid-state lighting, luminescent sensors, and anticounterfeiting labels. This paper details the step-by-step synthesis and preparation of luminescent composite films cast on glass substrates using a sodium carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and sodium alginate (SA) matrix. Teaching practice shows this course connects synthetic chemistry, coordination chemistry, spectroscopy, and materials processing, effectively improving students’ experimental skills, scientific thinking, and innovation. Overall, this work provides a practical model for updating chemistry lab courses.