SLOWTONICS · Slow excitonics for minimalistic and sustainable photonic and optoelectronic systems

Modern technology should not only provide improved efficiency but follow sustainable and minimalistic design principles for an optimised ecological footprint. Photonic applications, e.g., used for information processing in logistics or sensor systems, currently require more and more complex technological solutions to speed up data storage and processing while creating nonrecyclable waste. SLOWTONICS aims at providing a paradigm shift based on biocompatible organic optoelectronic and photonic components.The design principle of digital luminescence developed in my research group combines easily processable excitonic states at long lifetimes (> 1 s) with a programmable oxygen-based switch of the luminescence to create a unique programmable photonic framework. By using organic semiconductors, such systems offer a low ecological footprint, small material consumption, and a high degree of material tuneability for tailor-made technological solutions. First prototypes of programmable luminescent tags have demonstrated the potential of this technology yet missing the requirements for industrial application. Based on the existing expertise of my research group in the fields of organic optoelectronics and spectroscopy of soft luminescence materials, SLOWTONICS will overcome current limitations, to realize industry-relevant systems for optical data storage and exchange, and extend the application of digital luminescence towards luminescent security label and multi-component sensor systems. Once having developed novel communication components, we attempt to realize these designs made only from materials found in nature. This is an essential ultimate step because a world with an ever-growing demand for information requires systems that provide functionality and allow for responsible use. Our approach aims at systems that have material footprints of < 0.1 mg/system, making them truly minimalistic and sustainable.