Research progress in photo‐controlled radical involved luminescence materials

Abstract

In recent years, photo‐controlled radical room‐temperature phosphorescent (RTP) materials have shown significant application potential in information encryption, anti‐counterfeiting, sensing, and optical writing due to their dynamic response characteristics. This paper systematically reviews the latest developments in the field, focusing on the generation and stabilization mechanisms of photo‐induced radicals via various strategies. The precise control of phosphorescence intensity, lifetime, and color through radical involvement is achieved by material design methods such as co‐assembly, crystal engineering, and controlled polymerization. The key role of radicals as an “energy redistribution hub” and “light switch” in modulating intersystem crossing and suppressing non‐radiative transitions is highlighted. Additionally, this review summarizes innovative applications of radical‐based RTP materials in smart encryption, environmental sensing, photo printing, and 3D printing, and discusses current challenges including radical stability, oxygen quenching, and multifunctional integration. Future development of efficient bifunctional photo‐initiators, dynamic oxygen removal mechanisms, and biocompatible systems will drive the advancement of these materials in smart materials, biometrics, and information security.