Pyran-based derivative: non-conventional organogel and tri-colored high-contrast mechanochromism

An AIE-active pyran derivative bearing bromine, but no alkyl chains or amide units was found to be able to gelate organic solvent aided by the halogen-assisted balanced intermolecular π-π interactions. Moreover, the pyran derivative exhibits tri-colored high-contrast mechanochromism based on the transition between monomer and different π dimers.