Mechanoluminescence and Photoluminescence Heterojunction for Superior Multimode Sensing Platform of Friction, Force, Pressure, and Temperature in Fibers and 3D‐Printed Polymers

Abstract

AbstractEndowing a single material with various types of luminescence, that is, exhibiting a simultaneous optical response to different stimuli, is vital in various fields. A photoluminescence (PL)‐ and mechanoluminescence (ML)‐based multifunctional sensing platform is built by combining heterojunctioned ZnS/CaZnOS:Mn2+ mechano‐photonic materials using a 3D‐printing technique and fiber spinning. ML‐active particles are embedded in micrometer‐sized cellulose fibers for flexible optical devices capable of emitting light driven by mechanical force. Individually modified 3D‐printed hard units that exhibit intense ML in response to mechanical deformation, such as impact and friction, are also fabricated. Importantly, they also allow low‐pressure sensing up to ≈100 bar, a range previously inaccessible by any other optical sensing technique. Moreover, the developed optical manometer based on the PL of the materials demonstrates a superior high‐pressure sensitivity of ≈6.20 nm GPa−1. Using this sensing platform, four modes of temperature detection can be achieved: excitation‐band spectral shifts, emission‐band spectral shifts, bandwidth broadening, and lifetime shortening. This work supports the possibility of mass production of ML‐active mechanical and optoelectronic parts integrated with scientific and industrial tools and apparatus.