Program the “Light-Flashable” 2D Fluorescent Lifetime Microbarcodes for Precision Information Storage

Abstract

The output signals of dynamic microbarcodes with precise control over dimensions can be reversibly altered in response to external stimuli, which have emerged as a promising alternative to information encoding. However, the complexity of multi-dimensional encoding and the high requirements for precision in nano/microscale fabrication still present significant challenges. Herein, “Light-Flashable” two-dimensional (2D) polymeric fluorescent lifetime microbarcodes are prepared with excellent control of size, components, and functionalities using the technique known as living crystallization-driven self-assembly seeded growth method, optimizing for nanoscale spatial programmability of encoding patterns, light-triggered dynamic output, and quantitative fluorescence lifetime output. By carefully modulating the output signals, the integration of photoswitchable spiropyrans facilitates “Light-Flashable” dynamic signaling by controlling energy transfer between the fluorescent components and spiropyrans on the 2D platelet surfaces. This energy transfer enables the manipulation of light-responsive fluorescence lifetimes and enhances the robustness of information storage. Consequently, the development of such state-of-the-art information carriers, capable of managing complex light patterns and storing data in 3D space, will be essential for achieving extremely high data densities.