Fluorescence-color-tunable and transparent polyarylene ether nitrile films with high thermal stability and mechanical strength based on polymeric rare-earth complexes for roll-up displays

A novel series of transparent, flexible and fluorescent polymeric rare-earth complex films were successfully prepared by chemical coordination between carboxyl groups in polyarylene ether nitrile and rare-earth ions. The derived films showed high thermal stability with 5% weight loss temperature in the range of 402–420 °C, and also exhibited high mechanical strength ranging from 76 MPa to 83 MPa. Furthermore, all films demonstrated excellent macroscopic flexibility, since they can be easily curled in both natural and light-emitting states. Optical results indicated that the films possessed good optical transparency, and emitted intense fluorescence under ultraviolet excitation. More importantly, the fluorescence colors can be tuned between red and green by controlling the ratios of Eu(III)–Tb(III) ions in the films.

► Fluorescent films based on PEN rare-earth complexes were prepared. ► Films exhibit high thermal stability and high mechanical strength. ► Films show good optical transparency and excellent flexibility. ► Fluorescence colors of the films can be tuned between red and green.