Photophysical study and theoretical calculations of an ionic liquid crystal bearing oxadiazole

We report a detailed photophysical study of 1-dodecyl-4-[5-(4-dodecyloxyphenyl)-1,3,4-oxadiazole-2-yl]pyridinium bromide (454Do), a cationic amphiphile that behaves as a fluorescent liquid crystal. Excitation and emission spectra of the probe in different environments result in significant changes in quantum yields which are correlated with changes in lifetimes and theoretical calculations.

► Emission and excitation spectra and lifetimes of oxadiazole bearing compounds. ► The fluorescence of the oxadiazole ionic liquid crystal was not affected by changes in pH (2–12). ► Theoretical calculations are consistent with the fluorescence emission and excitation spectra.