Enhanced and tunable photochromism of MoO3–butylamine organic–inorganic hybrid composites

Orthorhombic molybdenum trioxide (α-MoO3) as one kind of potential inorganic photochromic material shows a slow response, poor reversibility and monotonic coloration. Here, we provide an efficient way to improve and tune the photochromism of MoO3. Novel inorganic–organic hybrid composites were successfully prepared by intercalating n-butylamine into the layer space of α-MoO3 and enhanced photochromic properties such as a fast response, superior reversibility, and good stability were achieved. Meanwhile, the solutions of as-prepared hybrids showed solvent-dependent discoloration due to the hole scavenger effect of ethanol. A reversible transformation between an intermediate state and an enhanced, but stable state was realized by switching irradiation. The improved photochromism caused the solutions of hybrids to show diverse discoloration varying from yellow to green to blue color.