Modification of photochromic inorganic/organic superlattice films by organic molecules

A layered superlattice, WO3-polymer = 1,10-decanediamine (1,10-DDA) self-assembled multilayer film, has been fabricated by means of alternating adsorption of tungstic acid and 1,10-DDA. The growth process, structure, and photochromic properties of the self-assembled multilayer film have been investigated and compared with those of the previously reported WO3/4,40-bis(aminomethyl) biphenyl (4,4'-BAMBp) system. It was found that the exciting improved photochromic properties of WO3-polymer/1,10-DDA films result from the polymerization of WO3 molecules in the inorganic layers. The results clearly show that the organic molecules can efficiently manipulate the microstructure of the inorganic layer as well as the photochromic properties of the self-assembled multilayer films.