Encapsulation of Molecular Chromophores in Phosphate Glass Towards Improved Stability Against Photodegradation

Abstract

In this study molecular porphyrin chromophores have been successfully vitrified in AgPO3 glass via a simple, low-temperature, post-melting encapsulation procedure. Their controlled incorporation within the phosphate glass network results to enhanced stability against visible light exposure while preserved their structural integrity. This simple method ensures the optical and electronic properties of porphyrins remain intact, rendering the developed composite porphyrin-glasses suitable for light-harvesting and photocatalytic applications. The AgPO3 glass matrix acts as a protective barrier, shielding porphyrins from environmental factors. This scalable, cost-effective technique eliminates the need for chemical modifications or anchoring groups, offering a robust pathway for integrating molecular chromophores into transparent optical media for advanced functional applications.

Keywords: porphyrin, phosphate glass, photodegradation, composite glasses, light harvesting