Photochromic Sol–Gel Systems

Abstract On the basis of published data, an analysis of the results of research in the field of development of photochromic materials based on sol–gel systems using photochromic compounds from the classes of spiropyrans, spirooxazines, diarylethenes, and azo compounds has been carried out. The dependences of the photochromic properties of photochromic compounds on their structure and composition of sol–gel matrices have been revealed. It has been shown that photochromic sol–gel coatings have a number of advantages over photochromic polymer layers. Examples of their application are given.