Fabricating a photochromic Schiff base into a wearable cellulose sensor and a smart textile for ultraviolet radiation monitoring outdoors

Abstract

A dual-channel photochromic Schiff base HBA is reported herein, which undergoes a reversible tautomerism in response to UV exposure, showing visible changes in both color and fluorescence. The spectral behavior, fatigue resistance, sensitivity are studied. The quantification of photochromic fluorescence/color change is solved by applying color spaces and chromatic aberration. HBA is further fabricated into low-cost wearable sensor and smart textile, enabling visual feedback under UV radiation. It demonstrates a low-costing platform for naked-eye-based dosimetry of outdoor UV radiations, providing an early warning for excessive UV exposure.