Efficient separation of conjugated polymers using a water soluble glycoprotein matrix: From fluorescence materials to light emitting devices

Optically active bio-composite blends of conjugated polymers or oligomers are fabricated by complexing them with bovine submaxilliary mucin (BSM) protein. The BSM matrix is exploited to host hydrophobic extended conjugated π-systems and to prevent undesirable aggregation and render such materials water soluble. This method allows tuning the emission color of solutions and films from the basic colors to the technologically challenging white emission. Furthermore, electrically driven light emitting biological devices are prepared and operated. A strategy for the processing of hydrophobic conjugated polymers from aqueous solution inside bovine submaxillary mucin protein is presented. By this encapsulation process, a complete isolation of the extended conjugated structures is achieved and aggregation of the backbones is prevented. When the blends are incorporated as active layer in organic light-emitting devices, their emission color can be controlled.