Stimuli-responsive switching of magnetic properties and solid-state colors for 2,3′-biimidazo[1,2-a]pyridin-2′-one radical derivatives

Abstract

The reversible switching of properties for organic materials is an attractive field for both fundamental research and practical application. We report herein a novel class of organic radicals, which exhibits the reversible magnetic behavior or color switching in response to acid–base stimuli. The reversibly switchable behaviors are ascribed to the proton-triggered molecular structure and conformation conversions. The responsive dynamic magnetic properties are unique in terms of the acid–base vapor stimuli. The present work provides new access to develop dynamic multifunctional materials which can be reversibly switched between different colors or magnetic behaviors based on external stimuli.