In a significant stride towards sustainable agriculture, researchers have developed a recyclable, luminescent flexible film that could revolutionize plant growth lighting and root imaging. Published in *Advanced Science*, this innovative solution addresses critical demands in smart agriculture, offering a green and customizable approach to plant cultivation and monitoring.
The research, led by Shengji Yuan of Guangxi University, introduces a novel film created from a filter paper and organic Cu(I) metal iodide. Through supramolecular assembly, two compounds—[Ca(15-crown-5)2]Cu4I6·2C3H7NO·H2O and [Ca2(18-crown-6)4]Cu4I8·6H2O—were synthesized. These compounds exhibit near-unity luminous efficiency under 450 nm excitation, producing a bright yellow emission. Moreover, they display exceptional X-ray radioluminescence, with a maximum light yield of 110,200 photons per MeV.
The film, prepared in situ using an “ancient cloth dyeing process,” demonstrates its versatility in both single-component white light-emitting diodes and X-ray imaging. By combining white light and X-ray image fusion, along with multi-angle imaging, the film enables 3D image reconstruction, a groundbreaking advancement for plant root analysis.
One of the most compelling aspects of this research is the film’s recyclability. It can be reused in an N, N-dimethylformamide solution while maintaining excellent stability. Additionally, the film can degrade into plant nutrients in natural soil, contributing to carbon neutrality—a critical factor in today’s environmentally conscious world.
“The potential commercial impacts for the agriculture sector are immense,” says Yuan. “This film not only enhances plant growth lighting but also provides a non-invasive method for monitoring root systems, which is crucial for optimizing crop yields and resource management.”
The implications of this research extend beyond immediate applications. The film’s ability to integrate plant growth lighting and root imaging into a single platform could streamline agricultural practices, reducing costs and increasing efficiency. Furthermore, its recyclability and biodegradability align with the growing demand for sustainable solutions in agriculture.
As the world grapples with energy scarcity and environmental challenges, innovations like this flexible film offer a beacon of hope. By promoting smart agriculture and sustainable practices, this research paves the way for a greener, more efficient future in farming.
The study, led by Shengji Yuan from the Guangxi Key Laboratory of Processing for Non-ferrous Metals and Featured Materials and School of Resources Environment and Materials at Guangxi University, represents a significant step forward in agritech. As the agricultural sector continues to evolve, such advancements will be crucial in meeting the demands of a growing population while minimizing environmental impact.