Photodimerization induced hierarchical and asymmetric iontronic micropatterns

Micropatterning various ion-based modality materials offers compelling advantages for functionality enhancement in iontronic pressure sensing, piezoionic mechanoreception, and skin-interfaced electrode adhesion. However, most existing patterning techniques for iontronic materials suffer from low flexibility and limited modulation capability. Herein, we propose a facile and robust method to fabricate hierarchical and asymmetrical iontronic micropatterns (denoted as HAIMs) through programmed regulation of the internal stress distribution and the local ionic migration among an iontronic host. The resultant HAIMs with arbitrarily regulated morphologies and region-dependent ionic electrical performance can be readily made via localized photodimerization of an anthracene-functionalized ionic liquid copolymer (denoted as An-PIL) and subsequent vapor oxidative polymerization of 3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene (EDOT). Based on the piezoionic effect within the resultant distinct doped PEDOT, HAIMs can serve as a scalable iontronic potential generator. Successful syntheses of these fascinating micropatterns may accelerate the development of patterned iontronic materials in a flexible, programmable, and functionally adaptive form.