Short-wavelength fluorescence caused by sequential two-photon excitation of some cyanine dyes: Effect of solvent viscosity on the quantum yields

Short-wavelength (SW) fluorescence of some cyanine dyes caused by sequential two-photon excitation was studied. The fluorescence quantum yield of the SW fluorescence shows a significant dependence on the solvent viscosity, but only a small dependence on temperature. This reveals the dynamic character of the emitting state: much lower intramolecular barrier and larger solute-solvent viscous drag compared to the S₁ state in the molecular conformational change which is important as a radiationless decay channel.