Comparing the conventional luminescent molecules, whose fluorescence is quenched once they aggregate, molecules with aggregation-induced emission properties exhibit significantly enhanced emission in solid state or aggregates due to their unique molecular structures and stacking modes, showing potential applications in optoelectronic devices, biochemical sensors and bioimaging. This paper mainly focus on the AIE properties of 9,10-distyrylanthracene (DSA) derivatives, and the AIE mechanism such as the restriction of intramolecular rotation, the twisted conformation of molecules and the packing structures. Also, the applications of DSA derivatives in solid state emitters, stimuli-responsive materials, biochemical sensors and bioimaging are introduced. Contents
1 Introduction
2 AIE molecules based on 9,10-distyrylanthracene
2.1 Small molecules
2.2 Macromolecules
3 The AIE mechanism of 9,10-distyrylanthracene based molecules
4 Applications of AIE luminogens based on 9,10-distyrylanthracene derivatives
4.1 High efficiency solid emitter
4.2 Piezallochromy
4.3 Fluorescent sensor
4.4 Bioimaging
5 Conclusion and outlook