Thermochromic Photonic Crystal Paper with Integrated Multilayer Structure and Fast Thermal Response: A Waterproof and
Xin Zhang1,2, Tian Yin1,3, Jianping Ge1,3,4
1Shanghai Key Laboratory of Green Chemistry and Chemical Processes, School of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, East China Normal University, Shanghai, 200062, China.
Advanced Materials (Deerfield Beach, Fla.)
|October 31, 2023
Summary
Researchers developed a new thermochromic polyurethane/hydrophobic-SiO2 photonic crystal/paraffin film for single-step thermal printing. This material offers fast response times, high resolution, and enhanced durability for advanced printing applications.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
- Photonics
Background:
- Thermochromic photonic crystals offer fade-resistant colors without toxic chemicals, ideal for thermal printing.
- Current limitations include slow response times, complex procedures, and expensive printer components.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop an all-solid-state, single-step thermochromic film compatible with commercial printers.
- To overcome the limitations of existing thermochromic printing technologies.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a multilayer film integrating thermochromic polyurethane, hydrophobic-SiO2 photonic crystal, and paraffin (PU/HPO-SiO2-PC/Para).
- Utilizing a fast thermochromic response in the millisecond range for controlled color change and paraffin infiltration.
Main Results:
- Achieved high-resolution and grayscale printing capabilities due to microscale control over paraffin infiltration and color change.
- Demonstrated excellent stability against daily liquids and enhanced mechanical stability on fibrous paper.
- Enabled single-step, all-solid-state thermal printing compatible with commercial printers.
Conclusions:
- The developed PU/HPO-SiO2-PC/Para film represents a significant advancement in thermochromic printing technology.
- Offers a practical, durable, and high-performance solution for various thermal printing applications.
