Down-converting luminescent optoelectronics and their applications

Luminescent materials and optoelectronics, particularly those that rely on down-conversion optical phenomena (i.e., involving a conversion from higher-energy photons into lower-energy photons), have garnered increasing interest in various photonics applications. Over the years, a plethora of down-converting luminescent materials have been actively explored, in particular for enhancing the collection and conversion efficiency of luminescent solar concentrators since the 1980s. However, with the exploration of new down-converting luminescent materials and the recent development of numerous emerging applications utilizing luminescent components for enhanced system performance, the technology is envisaged to expand beyond its use in luminescent solar concentrators. This perspective article aims at shedding light on the significance of incorporating luminescent materials and components for various emerging technologies related to optical-based communication, imaging, tracking, sensing, and data storage and encryption. The related opportunities and challenges are also outlined, which can potentially inspire practical pathways toward the commercialization of luminescent-based optoelectronics and shape the way forward for the broader community.