A dynamic assembly-induced emissive system for advanced information encryption with time-dependent security

TLDR

Advanced materials with time‑dependent encryption features are needed to satisfy growing security demands. The study develops smart materials that provide orthogonal and temporal encryption using a dynamic assembly‑induced multicolour supramolecular system. By tuning solvent composition to control the supramolecular assembly of pyrene derivatives, the authors generate multicolour fluorescence that enables dynamic, orthogonal encryption functions—including 3D codes—and time‑dependent displays and 4D codes that reveal information only at predetermined times. The results demonstrate a promising approach for designing highly secure, time‑dependent encryption materials.

Abstract

Abstract The development of advanced materials for information encryption with time-dependent features is essential to meet the increasing demand on encryption security. Herein, smart materials with orthogonal and temporal encryption properties are successfully developed based on a dynamic assembly-induced multicolour supramolecular system. Multicolour fluorescence, including blue, orange and even white light emissions, is achieved by controlling the supramolecular assembly of pyrene derivatives by tailoring the solvent composition. By taking advantage of the tuneable fluorescence, dynamically controlled information encryption materials with orthogonal encryption functions, e.g., 3D codes, are successfully developed. Moreover, time-dependent information encryption materials, such as temporal multi-information displays and 4D codes, are also developed by enabling the fluorescence-controllable supramolecular system in the solid phase, showing multiple pieces of information on a time scale, and the correct information can be identified only at a specified time. This work provides an inspiring point for the design of information encryption materials with higher security requirements.