Dendrimers finally have what it takes to break into the laser scene

Advances in optical devices are supported by the development of new materials. Microcrystallites of luminescent organic compounds can act as tiny laser sources for such devices, for example, in displays and other components. Dendrimers offer numerous advantages as luminescent materials, but so far, they have not been used as microcrystallites owing to their fragility and poor crystallinity. Now, a team of researchers has produced dendrimers that form robust crystals with lasing properties. Their findings are published in Angewandte Chemie.