One-step synthesis of a multi-functional imidazole luminescent sensor with AIE, acid-responsive, and sulfate-sensing properties

result in enhanced and red-shifted absorption. In the solid state, TBM exhibits bright yellow emission and mechanochromic luminescence arising from mechanically induced changes in molecular packing. Density functional theory and time-dependent density functional theory calculations provide insight into the electronic structure, charge-transfer characteristics, and stimulus-induced modulation of the photophysical properties. These findings demonstrate that the TBM scaffold effectively integrates ICT, aggregation effects, and external-stimuli sensitivity, highlighting its potential for chemical sensing and stimuli-responsive luminescent applications.