Perovskite Quantum-Dot-Doped PMMA Matrix Enables Natural Light Anticounterfeiting and Passive Displays

Lead halide perovskite quantum dots (PQDs) are widely regarded as promising materials for various display and lighting applications due to their exceptional optical properties, including high photoluminescence quantum yields and saturated color purity. However, the full potential of industrial and daily applications of PQDs in large-area and highly stable displays has not yet been adequately exploited. In this study, we achieved natural light anticounterfeiting (visible under UV excitation) and passive displays by uniformly and nondestructively incorporating precrystallized colloidal PQDs into a poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) matrix. PMMA long chains provide structural support and passivation for PQDs. In instances where surface organic chains are disrupted or removed by external stimuli, these long chains play a pivotal role in preventing deformations and aggregations, consequently enhancing the resistance to water, heat, and photoirradiation stimuli. The encapsulation of PQDs with sufficient PMMA long chains allows for the retention of fluorescence without any deterioration for over 6 weeks. Furthermore, the flexibility and mechanical properties of the PMMA matrix enable a variety of processing on these PQD–PMMA membranes, resulting in diverse display applications behaving with both practical and aesthetic advantages. Our research findings open up new possibilities for expanding the range of display applications for PQDs.