One-dimensional co-crystallized coordination polymers showing reversible mechanochromic luminescence: cation-anion interaction directed rapid self-recovery

Three one-dimensional (1D) chain polymers (1D-9HAC, 1D-Cd-9AC, and 1D-Cd-9AC-HBIM) that exhibit different intermolecular interactions and stacking patterns have been designed and synthesized. Only 1D-Cd-9AC-HBIM with rigid (anion) and flexible (cation) units alternately arranged exhibits mechanochromic luminescence, which can be recovered through rapid solvent treatment or a self-recovery process. A one-dimensional co-crystallized coordination polymer exhibits mechanochromic luminescence, which can be recovered through rapid solvent treatment or a self-recovery process.