Confocal Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging of Chlorophyll Molecules in Polymer Matrices

Abstract

Abstract— Confocal fluorescence lifetime imaging has been used to establish the microscopic disposition of chlorophyll molecules in polymer matrices. This study provides a direct test of models proposed on the basis of fluorescence measurements on bulk Alms. We show that whereas chlorophyll b molecules are uniformly distributed in nitrocellulose matrices, they form pocket‐like structures in polyvinyl alcohol matrices. The shape of the structures, seen as bright fluorescent spots on a uniform background, is modified on stretching the polyvinyl alcohol matrix.