ABSTRACT
Most applications of NIR organic materials are being explored by utilizing directly and indirectly their unique properties in the NIR spectral region. The absorption, fluorescence, photosensitizing, photoconductive, photochromic, and other properties in the NIR spectral region are all being explored for various applications in many sectors. For example, NIR dyes are used as contrast-enhancing agents for spectroscopic optical coherence tomography [1] and as an NIR photosensitizer in photodynamic therapy for alternative treatment for cancer and several other medical conditions [2,3]. In this chapter, the discussion is focused on the applications that utilize the NIR-absorbing, NIR chromogenic (e.g., electrochromic), photosensitizing, photovoltaic, and fluorescent properties. In addition, applications of low band-gap compounds and polymers in ambipolar organic transistors are presented.
