Solvatochromism of Nile red in anisotropic media

A quantitative study of the isotropic and anisotropic environment effects on the photophysical properties of a solvatochromic dye, Nile red, was carried out at room temperature. The absorption and emission spectra of the dye in liquid and liquid crystalline media were investigated. The solvatochromic method was used for determining the ground- and excited-state dipole moments. In addition, applicability of solvatochromic method for the dye solvation in anisotropic media was investigated. The nature and degree of the dye–solvent interactions were characterized using multi-parameter solvent polarity analyses.

► The ground- and excited-state dipole moments of Nile red was determined.
► Applicability of solvatochromic method for anisotropic medium was investigated.
► Solute–solvent interactions were characterized using multi-parameter relationships.