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 11 November 2026 | |
| Durham University scientists discover new ways to control light in advanced materials | |
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Scientists at Durham University have made significant advances in understanding how materials absorb and release light in two recently published research papers in Nature Communications.
Led by PhD student Carolina Francener and Professor Andrew Monkman from Durham University’s Physics Department, the research explores how changing the structure of molecules can influence the light they produce, potentially helping to develop new materials for future technologies.
The research highlights two different types of carbon-based molecule: one that can produce persistent, visible phosphorescence at room temperature, and another that provides evidence for an unusual arrangement of the energy levels involved in light emission.
The first study focuses on a specially designed molecule called monohomotruxene (MHTX).
Researchers found that it produces a cyan-blue glow that remains visible for more than 12 seconds after the light source is switched off, even at room temperature.
Made entirely from carbon and hydrogen, the molecule does not require heavy metals to produce this long-lasting glow.
The findings could help scientists develop new materials for security printing, anti-counterfeiting and future quantum technologies.
The second study examines a molecule called HzTFEX2, investigating an unusual arrangement of energy inside molecules that scientists have predicted for decades.
The researchers found experimental evidence supporting this arrangement under carefully controlled, low-temperature conditions.
Study co-author Professor Andrew Monkman of Durham University, said: “This new research highlights unexpected and unpredicted photophysical properties of very simple organic molecules which will open up new opportunities for photonics technologies.”
Although the two studies examine different molecules and different aspects of light emission, they share a common goal of understanding how to control the movement of energy inside organic materials.
The research findings improve understanding of how molecules absorb and release energy and could guide the development of future light-emitting materials, including those for electronic displays.
Although the studies examine different molecules, both demonstrate how understanding their structure and behaviour can help scientists control the way materials emit light.
The research involved international collaborations with scientists in Brazil, France and Japan.
Further research is needed before these findings can be developed into practical products, but the discoveries provide an important foundation for future advances in light-emitting materials.
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