Supramolecular light-harvesting systems based on cyanostilbene derivatives

Abstract

Photosynthesis provides a natural model for efficient light harvesting, inspiring the development of artificial systems designed to mimic this capability in capturing and converting solar energy. Artificial light-harvesting systems (LHSs) have thus become a key area of research, with promising applications in sensing, imaging, photocatalysis, and optoelectronics. Among the materials explored for LHSs, cyanostilbene derivatives stand out due to their ease of synthesis and unique photophysical properties, such as aggregation-induced emission (AIE) enhancement. These molecules can self-assemble into supramolecular structures through non-covalent interactions, including host–guest interactions, multiple hydrogen bonds, amphiphilic interactions, and metal-ligand coordination, offering tunable architectures for efficient energy transfer and light absorption. This minireview examines recent advancements in the design, synthesis, and functional performance of cyanostilbene-based supramolecular LHSs, analyzing their efficiency and adaptability in energy transfer processes. Future research may focus on integrating these systems with nanomaterials and exploring their potential in advanced energy conversion devices, offering new avenues for sustainable energy technologies.