A series of hydrogen‐bonded liquid crystals showing switchable fluorescence is reported. The fluorescence behavior results from the unique combination of hydrogen bonding, liquid crystallinity, and photobasicity. Thus, the molecular mobility in the mesophase is essential for the reversible photo‐initiated proton transfer switching on the fluorescence of the assemblies. The application potential of the materials for photo‐patterning was demonstrated.

The first example of halogen-bonded fluorescent liquid crystals based on the interaction of iodofluorobenzene derivatives with nitro-cyanostilbenes is reported. The systematic variation of the fluorination degree and pattern indicates the relevance of the halogen bond strength for the induction of liquid crystalline properties. The modular self-assembly approach enables the efficient tuning of the fluorescence behaviour and mesomorphic properties of the assemblies.

Hydrogen‐bonded liquid crystals with switchable fluorescence. Giese and co‐workers have investigated the liquid crystallinity and fluorescence behavior of hydrogen‐bonded assemblies. The unique combination of hydrogen‐bonding, liquid crystallinity and photobasicity of this system enables reversible switching of the fluorescence. The application potential of the materials for photo‐patterning was demonstrated. Read more in their Communication on page 13347 ff.