Abstract: The present invention provides a process for preparing a self-standing catecholamine-based membrane, the process comprising the steps of: (a) cross-linking a catechol derivative with an amine selected from the group consisting of: a known aliphatic amine hydrocarbon of formula (II); and an aromatic amine of formula (IIbis), in a liquid medium, wherein both the catechol and the amine are soluble, at a pH comprised from 6.5 to 10, and under appropriate agitation to create a catecholamine membrane in the air/liquid interface in the absence of any support; and b) isolating the membrane resulting from step (a) from the air/liquid interface. The resulting self-standing catecholamine-based membrane was robust, easy to handle and manipulate, highly flexible and adaptable to any kind of surface without breaking, and adhesive.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a photoinduced thermochromic or thermoluminescent composition, comprising: a) nanoparticles capable of absorbing near-infrared (NIR) radiation and converting the NIR radiation into heat, in particular metal gold nanoparticles; b) one or more phase change materials (PCM) selected from the group consisting of: b1) a PCM capable of acting as chromic or fluorochromic promoter; and b2) a PCM uncapable of acting as chromic or fluorochromic promoter; c) one or more dyes selected from the group consisting of: c1) a dye capable of modifying its colour- or emission-properties when the PCM changes between the solid state and the liquid state; and c2) a dye uncapable of modifying its colour- or emission-properties when the PCM between the solid state and the liquid state; and articles containing it. It also relates to processes for their preparation and their uses in therapy, cosmetics, diagnostics, optics and anti-fake technology.

Abstract: The present invention relates to catechol-derivative compounds of formula (I), as well as polymeric compounds obtained by condensation. The present invention also relates to the use of the compounds for preparing functional coatings and as adhesive substances.

Abstract: There are disclosed nanoemulsion optical materials, methods of making nanoemulsion optical materials and optical articles comprising nanoemulsion optical materials. A nanoemulsion optical material includes a polymer matrix and a plurality of nano-droplets, comprising an optically interactive material, directly dispersed within the polymer matrix.

Abstract: Coating with photochromic properties, method for producing said coating and use thereof applicable to optical articles and glazed surfaces. The coating is formed by the combination of the following three elements: (1) a polymeric matrix, which is typically rigid and deposited on the surface of interest; (2) hollow, sealed micro- and/or nanocapsules dispersed within said matrix; and (3) solutions of photochromic compounds (chosen from a group comprising spirooxazine, azobenzenes or chromenes) in a liquid solvent that does not react (with the photochromic compound and with the capsule wall), which are encapsulated inside said micro- or nanocapsules.

Abstract: There are disclosed nanoemulsion optical materials, methods of making nanoemulsion optical materials and optical articles comprising nanoemulsion optical materials. A nanoemulsion optical material includes a polymer matrix and a plurality of nano-droplets, comprising an optically interactive material, directly dispersed within the polymer matrix.

Abstract: Coating with photochromic properties, method for producing said coating and use thereof applicable to optical articles and glazed surfaces. The coating is formed by the combination of the following three elements: (1) a polymeric matrix, which is typically rigid and deposited on the surface of interest; (2) hollow, sealed micro- and/or nanocapsules dispersed within said matrix; and (3) solutions of photochromic compounds (chosen from a group comprising spirooxazine, azobenzenes or chromenes) in a liquid solvent that does not react (with the photochromic compound and with the capsule wall), which are encapsulated inside said micro- or nanocapsules.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a metallo-organic system that includes: a metal ion salt or complex; at least one organic ligand; and a substance of interest to be encapsulated, belonging to the group comprising a biological entity, a drug, a vaccine, a diagnostic contrast agent, a marker, an organic compound, an inorganic compound, a metallo-organic compound or a nanomaterial or nanodevices. Also disclose is the process for obtaining same and the uses thereof for the release and/or protection and/or storage of said substances in the pharmaceutical, chemical, environmental, medical and industrial sectors.