Bridging the timescales in electrochemiluminescence: From electron-transfer kinetics to rational system design

Abstract Electrochemiluminescence (ECL) serves as a premier analytical tool, yet its performance is fundamentally constrained by the intricate interplay of physicochemical processes occurring across vast temporal and spatial scales. Herein, a coherent kinetic framework is established to deconstruct the ECL cascade into electron transfer, chemical reaction, and exciton emission modules. Building on this mechanistic foundation, we critically evaluate kinetic regulation strategies designed to overcome intrinsic efficiency bottlenecks. Furthermore, we demonstrate how these precise kinetic controls translate into advanced applications, enabling high-throughput multiplexed sensing, super-resolution imaging beyond the diffraction limit, and dynamic information encryption based on temporal logic. Finally, a prospective outlook centered on the convergence of cross-mesoscale simulation, operando multimodal analysis, and artificial intelligence is provided, outlining a roadmap for the development of next-generation intelligent and high-precision ECL methodologies. By integrating kinetic phenomena into a unified perspective, this work offers a conceptual blueprint for developing next-generation ECL platforms with exceptional efficiency and spatiotemporal coherence.