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Fully reversible shape transition of soft spheres in elastomeric polymer opal films
Christian G Schäfer1, Daniel A Smolin, Goetz P Hellmann
1Ernst-Berl-Institute for Chemical Engineering and Macromolecular Science, Technische Universität Darmstadt , Darmstadt, D-64287, Germany.
Langmuir : the ACS Journal of Surfaces and Colloids
|August 17, 2013
Summary
Researchers created large elastomeric opal films with distinct colors using core-interlayer-shell beads. Stress-induced core deformation shifted the photonic band gap, offering reversible color tuning.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Optics
Background:
- Elastomeric opal films exhibit tunable iridescence.
- Controlling photonic band gap shifts is crucial for optical applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop large, well-defined elastomeric opal films with tunable iridescent colors.
- To investigate the effect of core deformation on photonic band gap properties.
Main Methods:
- Utilized core-interlayer-shell (CIS) beads with non-cross-linked hard cores.
- Cross-linked the opal film matrix via UV-irradiation after compression molding.
- Induce stress-induced deformation of embedded polystyrene (PS) cores.
Main Results:
- Achieved large, well-defined elastomeric opal films with distinct iridescent colors.
- Stress-induced deformation of CIS beads resulted in hexagonally arranged spheroid oblates (aspect ratio 2.5).
- Observed a significant photonic band gap shift of approximately 160 nm due to bead deformation.
Conclusions:
- Demonstrated a method for creating tunable elastomeric opal films using CIS beads.
- Showcased reversible shape transition of deformed beads, enabling full recovery of the original photonic band gap.
- Highlighted the potential for stress-tunable photonic materials.
