Preparation of the J-Aggregate of Cyanine Dyes by Using the Sodium Alginate Film as a Matrix

Abstract

An application of sodium alginate, a sodium salt of natural high-molecular carboxylic acid, to preparation of the J-aggregate of cyanine dyes has been examined. By spreading the ethanolic solution of four kinds of cyanine dyes over the sodium alginate films (SA films) and drying, the J-aggregate was easily formed as evidenced by appearance of sharp J-band. In comparison with luminescence properties of several dye aggregates in the cast films and Langmuir-Blodgett (LB) films, we could confirmthat SA films are the promising matrix to prepare the J-aggregate by a simple fabrication procedure.