Multiple Excitation‐Dependent Luminescence in a Single‐Matrix Mechanoluminescent Phosphor

ABSTRACT

Multiple excitation‐dependent (MED) luminescent materials offer unique opportunities for advanced applications in anti‐counterfeiting, information encryption, and temperature sensing. However, achieving MED behavior within a single‐dopant, single‐matrix system remains a significant challenge. Here, we report a trace‐doping strategy that enables MED luminescence in a single‐matrix ZnS:Mn ²⁺ mechanoluminescent phosphor. By coupling defect‐mediated blue emission (≈470 nm) with the characteristic Mn ²⁺ orange emission (≈590 nm), the phosphors exhibit multicolor emission that responds sensitively to multiple excitation parameters. Pronounced chromatic shifts from blue to orange are observed with variations in excitation wavelength and power density, while a continuous color transition is achieved over the temperature range of 313–373 K. Additionally, the phosphor exhibits a short‐lived (1–2 s) afterglow and time‐dependent color evolution, together with preserved mechanoluminescence, enabling dynamic multicolor emission under both optical and mechanical stimuli. Leveraging these features, multilevel anti‐counterfeiting labels are demonstrated, in which encoded information can be selectively revealed under specific conditions of excitation power, temperature, and time. This work establishes a simple yet effective strategy for realizing MED behavior in a single‐matrix system and provides a versatile platform for dynamic optical modulation and information security within the realm of Internet of Things.