Nanomaterials - 07

Abstract

As a new approach to precisely tune the functions of π-molecular liquids, known for their rich optoelectronic properties, we suggest a blending mothod that enables the homogeneous blending of multiple π-molecules[1]. A key prerequisite to obtaining a homogeneous blend is the miscibility of the constituent liquids, which ensures molecular-level uniformity and consistent characteristics[2].

Previously, we demonstrated homogeneous blends of hydrophobic alkyl-π liquids and alkyl-π elastomers[3], confirmed via rheological analysis. Here, we investigate the effect of contrasting liquid affinities by replacing hydrophobic branched alkyl chains with hydrophilic branched triethylene glycol (TEG) chains while maintaining the same chromophore core (Fig. 1). This substitution induces phase separation when mixed with hydrophobic π-liquids, marking a clear miscibility-to-immiscibility transition driven by side-chain polarity. Confocal and high-resolution fluorescence microscopy show that each phase retains its intrinsic properties, with no intermediate interface. Dynamic droplet experiments further characterize the behavior of these immiscible blends.