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Patterned oscillating topographical changes in photoresponsive polymer coatings
M Hendrikx1, A P H J Schenning, D J Broer
1Functional Organic Materials and Devices, Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology, 5612 AZAE, Eindhoven, The Netherlands. D.Broer@tue.nl.
Soft Matter
|June 8, 2017
Summary
This study demonstrates light-induced surface deformations in liquid crystal polymer coatings. The patterned oscillations are controlled by polarized UV light, enabling selective actuation and dynamic control.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Optics
Background:
- Liquid crystal polymers (LCPs) exhibit unique optical and mechanical properties.
- Photo-responsive materials can undergo reversible changes upon light exposure.
- Controlling surface topography at the microscale is crucial for advanced applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate light-induced surface topography changes in LCP coatings.
- To achieve patterned oscillatory deformation using polarized UV light.
- To explore selective actuation and dynamic control of surface dynamics.
Main Methods:
- Co-alignment of dichroic photo-responsive azobenzene with nematic LCP network molecules.
- Application of polarized UV light to induce surface deformation.
- Continuous change in UV polarization for dynamic oscillation control.
- Manipulation of light ratios (blue/UV) and ambient temperature.
Main Results:
- Light-induced patterned oscillatory deformation of the LCP surface topography.
- Surface deformation sensitivity to polarized UV light due to molecular co-alignment.
- Locally selective actuation achieved in complex alignment patterns.
- Dynamic oscillation controlled by actuation/relaxation kinetics and UV polarization.
- Atypical deformation observed at domain defect lines.
- Tunable oscillation amplitude and presence via light ratios and temperature.
Conclusions:
- Polarized UV light can precisely control the surface topography of LCP coatings.
- The study establishes a method for dynamic, selective surface actuation.
- Findings offer potential for novel micro-optics, sensors, and actuators.
