Ultralong phosphorescence cellulose with excellent anti-bacterial, water-resistant and ease-to-process performance

Organic room-temperature phosphorescence (RTP) materials often suffer from poor processability because of their crystalline or cross-linked nature. Here, the authors demonstrate phosphorescence in a processable cellulose derivative by introducing cationic groups such as imidazolium cations which are able to promote intersystem crossing and to form hydrogen bonds, inhibiting non-radiative transitions.