Resonance Energy Transfer in Hybrid Systems of Photoactive Dye Molecules and Layered Inorganics

The phenomenon of Forster resonance energy transfer (FRET) commonly leads to significant changes in the photophysical properties of systems. FRET is very important for the functioning of photosynthesis, thus inspiring scientists to design new functional materials for the efficient use of light energy. This chapter summarizes existing knowledge about FRET in hybrid systems containing inorganic layered nanoparticles and organic luminescent dyes. The physical principles of the interaction between dye molecules leading to FRET and the effect on the spectral properties of the systems are briefly presented. The main part of the chapter covers the fundamental properties of layered nanoparticles, their interactions with organic dyes, and numerous examples of hybrid materials exhibiting FRET. The focus is on various hybrids including various types of assemblies, films, composites, and more complex systems, which can be synthesized from several luminescent species, such as ionic dyes, neutral dyes, luminescent polymeric substances, and complexes. Special attention is devoted to the effects of the dye surface concentration and distribution of the molecules, anisotropy, the types of inorganic host, and external stimuli on the controlled energy transfer. Some examples of applications and the relevance of FRET for future research are summarized.