Production of photoluminescent transparent poly(methyl methacrylate) for smart windows

Photochromic and long‐lasting photoluminescent transparent, rigid, ultraviolet (UV) protective and superhydrophobic poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) plastic able to switch colour beneath UV irradiation was developed. Photoluminescent transparent PMMA plastic was prepared by the simple polymerization process of methyl methacrylate immobilized with alkaline earth aluminate (AEA) nanoparticles. These colourless PMMA plastic substrates showed a colour switch to greenish underneath UV light as proved using CIELAB screening. The morphology of AEA was evaluated using transmission electron microscopy. Conversely, transparent PMMA samples were evaluated using energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectra, scanning electron microscope, X‐ray fluorescence spectroscopy and for hardness properties. Additionally, the photoluminescence properties were explored by studying excitation and emission spectra. The produced luminescence colourless PMMA plastic substrates displayed excitation band at 370 nm, and three emission peaks at 433, 494 and 513 nm. Photoluminescent PMMA with lower contents of AEA showed fast and reversible photochromism under UV light, while PMMA samples with higher contents of AEA showed long‐lasting luminescence such as a flashlight with the ability to replace electric power. The findings showed that the produced photoluminescence colourless PMMA plastic substrates exhibited enhanced UV shielding and superhydrophobicity. Photoluminescent transparent polymethyl methacrylate with improved ultraviolet blocking and superhydrophobicity was developed for potential smart windows. Photochromism and persistent phosphorescence were achieved relying on the total content of alkaline earth aluminate nanoparticles. Reversible photochromic response to ultraviolet light was reported without fatigue demonstrating a color change from colorless under visible light to greenish under ultraviolet light