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Electrically Switchable Diffraction Grating Based on Electrophoretic Redistribution of Carbon Black Nanoparticles
Young Jin Lim1, ChaeLim Han1, Yeon Jin Han2
1Department of JBNU-KIST Industry-Academia Convergence Research, Jeonbuk National University, Jeonju, Jeonbuk, South Korea.
Small (Weinheim an Der Bergstrasse, Germany)
|July 31, 2026
Summary
This study introduces a switchable diffractor using carbon black nanoparticles that adjusts its slit spacing via electric fields. This tunable optical device offers bistability and a wide operating temperature range for photonic applications.
Area of Science:
- Photonics and Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Diffractive optical elements are crucial for manipulating light.
- Existing diffractive devices often lack tunability or have limited operating conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a novel switchable diffractor with adjustable slit spacing.
- To explore the use of carbon black nanoparticles for tunable diffraction.
Main Methods:
- Utilized carbon black (CB) nanoparticles whose positions are controlled by vertical electric fields.
- Engineered planar and interdigitated electrodes to generate the electric fields.
- Investigated the effect of slit spacing on diffraction angle and device bistability.
Main Results:
- Demonstrated a switchable diffractor where slit spacing is controlled by electric fields applied to CB nanoparticles.
- Achieved adjustable diffraction angles by switching between wide-slit and narrow-slit modes.
- Observed bistability in the diffractor, maintaining slit modes without an applied field when optimized with a thickening agent.
- Confirmed a wide operating temperature range (-50°C to 100°C) and polarization independence.
Conclusions:
- The developed carbon black diffractor offers tunable diffraction angles through electrically controlled slit spacing.
- The device exhibits bistability and robustness across a wide temperature range, making it suitable for advanced photonic devices.
