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Switching between 3D Surface Topographies in Liquid Crystal Elastomer Coatings Using Two-Step Imprint Lithography
Pei Zhang1, Michael G Debije1,2, Laurens T de Haan3
1Stimuli-responsive Functional Materials and Devices (SFD), Department of Chemical Engineering and Chemistry, Eindhoven University of Technology (TU/e), Groene Loper, Eindhoven, 5600 MB, The Netherlands.
Researchers developed a novel method for creating switchable 3D surface topographies in liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) coatings. This technique allows for reversible switching between two distinct surface structures, opening doors for advanced material applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Polymer Chemistry
- Surface Engineering
Background:
- Dynamic surface topographies are crucial for various applications but achieving switchable 3D structures in liquid crystal (LC) polymers is difficult.
- Existing methods often struggle with reversibility and precise control over multiple distinct 3D states.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a robust method for fabricating LCE coatings with switchable 3D surface topographies.
- To demonstrate reversible switching between two distinct programmed surface structures.
- To explore the versatility of the method by creating different types of switchable topographies.
Main Methods:
- A two-step imprint lithography process was employed on liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) coatings.
- The first step involved imprinting and partial polymerization via thiol-acrylate crosslinking to create an initial microstructure.
- The second step involved re-imprinting with a different mold and full polymerization using light to program a second topography.
Main Results:
- Achieved reversible surface switching between two distinct 3D programmed states in LCE coatings.
- Demonstrated the ability to create diverse dynamic topographies by varying imprint molds (e.g., grating/rough, triangular prisms).
- Successfully switched between a random scatterer and an ordered diffractor, and between two 3D structural states.
Conclusions:
- The developed two-step imprint lithography platform enables dynamic 3D topological switching in LCE coatings.
- This method offers a versatile approach for creating switchable surfaces with tunable optical and physical properties.
- Potential applications include antifouling, biomedical surfaces, switchable friction, and tunable optics.
