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Wang Y, Liu Y, Hao X, Zhou X, Peng H, Shen Z, Smalyukh II, Xie X, Yang B. Supramolecular Liquid Crystal Carbon Dots for Solvent-Free Direct Ink Writing. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2023; 35:e2303680. [PMID: 37381765 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202303680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Recent years have witnessed the major advances of nanolights with extensive exploration of nano-luminescent materials like carbon dots (CDs). However, solvent-free processing of these materials remains a formidable challenge, impeding endeavors to develop advanced manufacturing techniques. Herein, in response to this challenge, liquid crystallization is demonstrated as a versatile and robust approach by deliberately anchoring flexible alkyl chains on the CDs surface. Alkyl chain grafting on the CDs surface is observed to substantially depress the common aggregation-caused quenching effect, and results in a shift of self-assembly structure from the crystalline phase to smectic liquid crystalline phase. The liquid-crystalline phase-transition temperature is ready to adjust by varying the alkyl chain length, endowing low-temperature (<50 °C) melt-processing capabilities. Consequently, the first case of direct ink writing (DIW) with liquid crystal (LC) carbon dots is demonstrated, giving rise to highly emissive objects with blue, green and red fluorescence, respectively. Another unexpected finding is that DIW with the LC inks dramatically outperforms DIW with isotropic inks, further highlighting the significance of the LC processing. The approach reported herein not only exhibits a fundamental advance by imparting LC functions to CDs, but also promises technological utility in DIW-based advanced manufacturing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yixuan Wang
- Key Lab of Material Chemistry for Energy Conversion and Storage, Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Lab of Materials Chemistry and Service Failure, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Yun Liu
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Xingtian Hao
- Key Lab of Material Chemistry for Energy Conversion and Storage, Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Lab of Materials Chemistry and Service Failure, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Xingping Zhou
- Key Lab of Material Chemistry for Energy Conversion and Storage, Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Lab of Materials Chemistry and Service Failure, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), Wuhan, 430074, China
- National Anti-Counterfeit Engineering Research Center, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Haiyan Peng
- Key Lab of Material Chemistry for Energy Conversion and Storage, Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Lab of Materials Chemistry and Service Failure, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), Wuhan, 430074, China
- National Anti-Counterfeit Engineering Research Center, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Zhihao Shen
- Beijing National Laboratory for Molecular Sciences, Key Laboratory of Polymer Chemistry and Physics of Ministry of Education, Center for Soft Matter Science and Engineering, College of Chemistry and Molecular Engineering, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Ivan I Smalyukh
- Department of Physics and Material Science and Engineering Program, University of Colorado at Boulder, Boulder, CO, 80309, USA
| | - Xiaolin Xie
- Key Lab of Material Chemistry for Energy Conversion and Storage, Ministry of Education, Hubei Key Lab of Materials Chemistry and Service Failure, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST), Wuhan, 430074, China
- National Anti-Counterfeit Engineering Research Center, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Bai Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Supramolecular Structure and Materials, College of Chemistry, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, China
- Optical Functional Theragnostic Joint Laboratory of Medicine and Chemistry, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, China
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2
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Lin S, Zhang Y, Guo D, Song C, Guo J. Polymer-Stabilized Liquid Crystal Films Containing Dithienyldicyanoethene-Based Chiral Photoswitch: Multi-Modulation for Environment-Adaptative Smart Windows. Chemistry 2023; 29:e202300993. [PMID: 37154210 DOI: 10.1002/chem.202300993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 05/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/08/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
A polymer-stabilized liquid crystal (PSLC)-based environment-adaptative smart window with multi-modulations is demonstrated. This PSLC system contains a right-handed dithienyldicyanoethene-based chiral photoswitch and a chiral dopant, S811, with opposite handedness, of which the reversible cis-trans photoisomerization of the switch can drive self-shading of the smart window under UV light stimulus because of the transition from nematic phase to cholesteric one. With the assistance of solar heat, the opacity of the smart window can be deepened because the heat promotes the isomerization conversion rate of the switch. This switch has no thermal relaxation at room temperature, therefore, the smart window exhibits dual stabilization: transparent state (cis-isomer) and opaque state (trans-isomer). Moreover, the incident intensity of sunlight can be regulated by an electric field, which allows the smart window to adapt to some specific situations. Such an energy-saving device can be used in buildings and vehicles to control indoor temperature and adapt to the required ambiance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siyang Lin
- Key Laboratory of Carbon Fibers and Functional Polymers, Ministry of Education, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, P. R. China
| | - Yiyu Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Carbon Fibers and Functional Polymers, Ministry of Education, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, P. R. China
| | - Dekang Guo
- Key Laboratory of Carbon Fibers and Functional Polymers, Ministry of Education, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, P. R. China
| | - Chunfeng Song
- Key Laboratory of Carbon Fibers and Functional Polymers, Ministry of Education, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, P. R. China
| | - Jinbao Guo
- Key Laboratory of Carbon Fibers and Functional Polymers, Ministry of Education, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Beijing University of Chemical Technology, Beijing, 100029, P. R. China
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3
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A Stable PDLC Film with High Ageing Resistance from an Optimized System Containing Rigid Monomer. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28041887. [PMID: 36838878 PMCID: PMC9962081 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28041887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
With the switchability between transparent and light-scattering states, polymer-dispersed liquid crystals (PDLC) are widely used as smart windows, flexible display devices, projectors, and other devices. In outdoor applications, in addition to excellent electro-optical properties, there is also a high demand for film stability. In this work, a PDLC film with high mechanical strength and structural stability is prepared that can maintain stability at 80 °C for 2000 h. By choosing liquid crystals with a wide temperature range, adopting acrylate polymer monomers containing hydroxyl groups, and adjusting the polymer content, the PDLC film can work well from -20 °C to 80 °C. On this basis, the effects of the introduction of rigid monomers on the mechanical properties and electro-optical properties of PDLC films are investigated.
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4
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Ma LL, Li CY, Pan JT, Ji YE, Jiang C, Zheng R, Wang ZY, Wang Y, Li BX, Lu YQ. Self-assembled liquid crystal architectures for soft matter photonics. LIGHT, SCIENCE & APPLICATIONS 2022; 11:270. [PMID: 36100592 PMCID: PMC9470592 DOI: 10.1038/s41377-022-00930-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 07/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Self-assembled architectures of soft matter have fascinated scientists for centuries due to their unique physical properties originated from controllable orientational and/or positional orders, and diverse optic and photonic applications. If one could know how to design, fabricate, and manipulate these optical microstructures in soft matter systems, such as liquid crystals (LCs), that would open new opportunities in both scientific research and practical applications, such as the interaction between light and soft matter, the intrinsic assembly of the topological patterns, and the multidimensional control of the light (polarization, phase, spatial distribution, propagation direction). Here, we summarize recent progresses in self-assembled optical architectures in typical thermotropic LCs and bio-based lyotropic LCs. After briefly introducing the basic definitions and properties of the materials, we present the manipulation schemes of various LC microstructures, especially the topological and topographic configurations. This work further illustrates external-stimuli-enabled dynamic controllability of self-assembled optical structures of these soft materials, and demonstrates several emerging applications. Lastly, we discuss the challenges and opportunities of these materials towards soft matter photonics, and envision future perspectives in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling-Ling Ma
- National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructures, Key Laboratory of Intelligent Optical Sensing and Manipulation, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Chao-Yi Li
- National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructures, Key Laboratory of Intelligent Optical Sensing and Manipulation, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Jin-Tao Pan
- National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructures, Key Laboratory of Intelligent Optical Sensing and Manipulation, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Yue-E Ji
- National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructures, Key Laboratory of Intelligent Optical Sensing and Manipulation, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Chang Jiang
- National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructures, Key Laboratory of Intelligent Optical Sensing and Manipulation, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Ren Zheng
- National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructures, Key Laboratory of Intelligent Optical Sensing and Manipulation, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Ze-Yu Wang
- National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructures, Key Laboratory of Intelligent Optical Sensing and Manipulation, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China
| | - Yu Wang
- National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructures, Key Laboratory of Intelligent Optical Sensing and Manipulation, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Bing-Xiang Li
- National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructures, Key Laboratory of Intelligent Optical Sensing and Manipulation, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China.
- College of Electronic and Optical Engineering & College of Flexible Electronics (Future Technology), Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing, 210023, China.
| | - Yan-Qing Lu
- National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructures, Key Laboratory of Intelligent Optical Sensing and Manipulation, College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, and Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210023, China.
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5
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Zhang X, Xu Y, Valenzuela C, Zhang X, Wang L, Feng W, Li Q. Liquid crystal-templated chiral nanomaterials: from chiral plasmonics to circularly polarized luminescence. LIGHT, SCIENCE & APPLICATIONS 2022; 11:223. [PMID: 35835737 PMCID: PMC9283403 DOI: 10.1038/s41377-022-00913-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Chiral nanomaterials with intrinsic chirality or spatial asymmetry at the nanoscale are currently in the limelight of both fundamental research and diverse important technological applications due to their unprecedented physicochemical characteristics such as intense light-matter interactions, enhanced circular dichroism, and strong circularly polarized luminescence. Herein, we provide a comprehensive overview of the state-of-the-art advances in liquid crystal-templated chiral nanomaterials. The chiroptical properties of chiral nanomaterials are touched, and their fundamental design principles and bottom-up synthesis strategies are discussed. Different chiral functional nanomaterials based on liquid-crystalline soft templates, including chiral plasmonic nanomaterials and chiral luminescent nanomaterials, are systematically introduced, and their underlying mechanisms, properties, and potential applications are emphasized. This review concludes with a perspective on the emerging applications, challenges, and future opportunities of such fascinating chiral nanomaterials. This review can not only deepen our understanding of the fundamentals of soft-matter chirality, but also shine light on the development of advanced chiral functional nanomaterials toward their versatile applications in optics, biology, catalysis, electronics, and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Zhang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, 300350, Tianjin, China
| | - Yiyi Xu
- Institute of Advanced Materials and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southeast University, 211189, Nanjing, China
| | - Cristian Valenzuela
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, 300350, Tianjin, China
| | - Xinfang Zhang
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44242, USA
| | - Ling Wang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, 300350, Tianjin, China.
| | - Wei Feng
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, 300350, Tianjin, China.
| | - Quan Li
- Institute of Advanced Materials and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southeast University, 211189, Nanjing, China.
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44242, USA.
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6
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A simulation of diffractive liquid crystal smart window for privacy application. Sci Rep 2022; 12:11384. [PMID: 35790764 PMCID: PMC9256592 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-15636-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Using a single substrate, we demonstrate a simple two-dimensional (2-D) phase grating cell with an octothorp electrode. Owing to the large spatial phase difference in any direction, the proposed grating cell has a high haze value in the opaque state (76.7%); Moreover, it has the advantages of a one-dimensional (1-D) phase grating cell, such as high fabricability, fast response time, and low operating voltage. Furthermore, the proposed grating cell has a faster response time than the 2-D grating cell (comparable to a 1-D grating cell). All the electro-optic parameters have been calculated using a commercial modeling tool. Consequently, we expect our proposed grating cell to find applications in virtual reality (VR)/augmented reality (AR) systems or window displays with fast response times.
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7
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Qu R, Li G. Overview of Liquid Crystal Biosensors: From Basic Theory to Advanced Applications. BIOSENSORS 2022; 12:bios12040205. [PMID: 35448265 PMCID: PMC9032088 DOI: 10.3390/bios12040205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Liquid crystals (LCs), as the remarkable optical materials possessing stimuli-responsive property and optical modulation property simultaneously, have been utilized to fabricate a wide variety of optical devices. Integrating the LCs and receptors together, LC biosensors aimed at detecting various biomolecules have been extensively explored. Compared with the traditional biosensing technologies, the LC biosensors are simple, visualized, and efficient. Owning to the irreplaceable superiorities, the research enthusiasm for the LC biosensors is rapidly rising. As a result, it is necessary to overview the development of the LC biosensors to guide future work. This article reviews the basic theory and advanced applications of LC biosensors. We first discuss different mesophases and geometries employed to fabricate LC biosensors, after which we introduce various detecting mechanisms involved in biomolecular detection. We then focus on diverse detection targets such as proteins, enzymes, nucleic acids, glucose, cholesterol, bile acids, and lipopolysaccharides. For each of these targets, the development history and state-of-the-art work are exhibited in detail. Finally, the current challenges and potential development directions of the LC biosensors are introduced briefly.
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8
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Chen X, Zhang S, Chen X, Li Q. Tunable Circularly Polarized Luminescent Supramolecular Systems: Approaches and Applications. CHEMPHOTOCHEM 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/cptc.202100256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xu‐Man Chen
- Institute of Advanced Materials and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Southeast University Nanjing 211189 China
| | - Shu Zhang
- Institute of Advanced Materials and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Southeast University Nanjing 211189 China
| | - Xiao Chen
- Institute of Advanced Materials and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Southeast University Nanjing 211189 China
| | - Quan Li
- Institute of Advanced Materials and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Southeast University Nanjing 211189 China
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program Kent State University Kent OH 44242 USA
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9
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Wang X, Hu W, Chen H, Saeed MH, Huang J, Hu J, Ren Y, Xu J, Zhang L, Yu M, Zhang H, Yang H. Effects of chemically functionalized
TiO
2
nanoparticles on the
UV
‐shielding characteristics of polymer‐dispersed liquid crystals. POLYM ADVAN TECHNOL 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/pat.5621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Metastable Materials Science and Technology Yanshan University Qinhuangdao China
| | - Wei Hu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering Peking University Beijing China
- School of Materials Science and Engineering University of Science and Technology Beijing Beijing China
| | - Hongren Chen
- School of Materials Science and Engineering University of Science and Technology Beijing Beijing China
| | | | - Junyi Huang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering Peking University Beijing China
| | - Junmei Hu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering University of Science and Technology Beijing Beijing China
| | - Yunxiao Ren
- School of Materials Science and Engineering University of Science and Technology Beijing Beijing China
| | - Jianjun Xu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering University of Science and Technology Beijing Beijing China
| | - Lanying Zhang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering Peking University Beijing China
| | - Meina Yu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering University of Science and Technology Beijing Beijing China
| | - Haiquan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Metastable Materials Science and Technology Yanshan University Qinhuangdao China
| | - Huai Yang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering Peking University Beijing China
- School of Materials Science and Engineering University of Science and Technology Beijing Beijing China
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10
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Bhardwaj A, Sridurai V, Meleth Puthoor N, Nair GG. Enhanced Mie resonance in a low refractive index colloidal metamaterial aided by nematic liquid crystal. J Mol Liq 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molliq.2021.117116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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Abstract
Smart soft materials are envisioned to be the building blocks of the next generation of advanced devices and digitally augmented technologies. In this context, liquid crystals (LCs) owing to their responsive and adaptive attributes could serve as promising smart soft materials. LCs played a critical role in revolutionizing the information display industry in the 20th century. However, in the turn of the 21st century, numerous beyond-display applications of LCs have been demonstrated, which elegantly exploit their controllable stimuli-responsive and adaptive characteristics. For these applications, new LC materials have been rationally designed and developed. In this Review, we present the recent developments in light driven chiral LCs, i.e., cholesteric and blue phases, LC based smart windows that control the entrance of heat and light from outdoor to the interior of buildings and built environments depending on the weather conditions, LC elastomers for bioinspired, biological, and actuator applications, LC based biosensors for detection of proteins, nucleic acids, and viruses, LC based porous membranes for the separation of ions, molecules, and microbes, living LCs, and LCs under macro- and nanoscopic confinement. The Review concludes with a summary and perspectives on the challenges and opportunities for LCs as smart soft materials. This Review is anticipated to stimulate eclectic ideas toward the implementation of the nature's delicate phase of matter in future generations of smart and augmented devices and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hari Krishna Bisoyi
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
| | - Quan Li
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States.,Institute of Advanced Materials, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, and Jiangsu Hi-Tech Key Laboratory for Biomedical Research, Southeast University, Nanjing 211189, China
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12
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Yang Y, Zhang X, Chen Y, Yang X, Ma J, Wang J, Wang L, Feng W. Bioinspired Color-Changing Photonic Polymer Coatings Based on Three-Dimensional Blue Phase Liquid Crystal Networks. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2021; 13:41102-41111. [PMID: 34387073 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.1c11711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Photonic polymer coatings that can adaptively respond to the constant changes of surrounding environments are of profound significance for diverse applications such as optical sensors, information encryption, and adaptive camouflage. Here, we report the fabrication of humidity-driven color-changing photonic polymer coatings on the basis of judiciously designed hydrogen-bonded three-dimensional (3D) blue phase liquid crystal networks. Thanks to the inherent self-assembled 3D photonic nanostructures and tough covalent bonding between the polymers and substrate surfaces, the resulting polymer coatings are found to exhibit vivid structural colors, and humidity-driven reversible color changes across the visible spectrum of light can be achieved upon breaking the hydrogen bonds and subsequent conversion into a hygroscopic polymer coating. As the proof-of-concept applications, we demonstrate the information encryption, inkjet-printable photonic patterns, bioinspired adaptive camouflage, and colorimetric humidity sensor with such promising humidity-driven color-changing photonic polymer coatings. The results disclosed herein are expected to provide new insights into the development of stimuli-responsive advanced functional materials with tailorable 3D photonic nanostructures toward technological applications ranging from sensing, display, anticounterfeiting, and biomimetic camouflage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanzhao Yang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Xuan Zhang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Yuanhao Chen
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Xiao Yang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Jiazhe Ma
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Jingxia Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Bio-Inspired Materials and Interfaces Sciences, Technical Institute of Physics and Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Ling Wang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Wei Feng
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300350, China
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Ceramics and Machining Technology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin, 300350 China
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13
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The Electro-Optical Properties and Adhesion Strength of Epoxy-Polymercaptan-Based Polymer Dispersed Liquid Crystal Films. CRYSTALS 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/cryst11060576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Polymer dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) films were prepared by thermal polymerization-induced phase separation in epoxy/polymercaptan/liquid crystal (LC)/accelerator mixtures. The effects of the concentration of LC and accelerator, the curing temperature, and the structure of epoxy monomer on the electro-optical (E-O) properties and adhesion strength of the PDLC films were studied systematically via E-O, peel strength, DSC, IR, and gel measurements. It showed that different polymer structures and the properties of the polymer can be obtained by changing the compositions and the curing temperature, which had significant impacts on the E-O properties of the PDLC films. Meanwhile, the polymer matrix with high glass-transition temperature (Tg) and small pore size will improve the adhesion strength of the PDLC film, and these kinds of epoxy-polymercaptan-based PDLC films have better performance than traditional acrylate-based PDLC in the aspect of the adhesion strength. This work may provide some inspiration in preparing epoxy-polymercaptan-based PDLC films, which both have excellent E-O performance and good adhesion strength, towards roll-to-roll processes and large-scale flexible applications.
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14
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Yang Y, Wang L, Yang H, Li Q. 3D Chiral Photonic Nanostructures Based on Blue‐Phase Liquid Crystals. SMALL SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/smsc.202100007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yanzhao Yang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering Tianjin University Tianjin 300350 China
| | - Ling Wang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering Tianjin University Tianjin 300350 China
| | - Huai Yang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering College of Engineering Peking University Beijing 100871 China
| | - Quan Li
- Institute of Advanced Materials and School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering Southeast University Nanjing 211189 China
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program Kent State University Kent OH 44242 USA
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15
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Bhat SA, Rao DSS, Prasad SK, Yelamaggad CV. Chiral plasmonic liquid crystal gold nanoparticles: self-assembly into a circular dichroism responsive helical lamellar superstructure. NANOSCALE ADVANCES 2021; 3:2269-2279. [PMID: 36133755 PMCID: PMC9419753 DOI: 10.1039/d0na01070g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Owing to their proven and promising potential in various technological endeavors ranging from catalysis and sensing to invisibility cloaks made from metamaterials, chiral plasmonic superstructures resulting from the directed self-assembly of optically active metal nanoparticles (MNPs) have been pursued intensively in recent years. Several strategic efforts have emerged especially to accomplish advanced nanomaterials assembling into liquid crystalline (LC) helical structures, where MNPs are regularly packed in fluid/frozen arrays/layers or wires (columns). While the helical fluid columnar arrays (molecular wires) showing circular dichroism (CD) have been realized, the discovery of fluid chiral lamellar ordering, where the dielectric and conducting regimes are arranged alternatively, has hitherto remained highly elusive. Herein we report the first examples of monodisperse LC-gold NPs (LC-GNPs) self-assembling into a fluid/frozen lamellar structure exhibiting CD activity. Notably, these new, exceptional LC-GNPs have been realized by simple, hassle-free protocols that involve the room temperature addition of LC dimer-like arylamines to Au(iii), where the amines not only reduce Au(iii) to Au(0) but also bind strongly to the central GNP scaffold. Their molecular structure, mesomorphism, and ability to interact with circularly polarized light have been evidenced unambiguously and could play an important role in realizing metamaterials in the visible region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sachin A Bhat
- Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS) P. B. No. 1329, Prof. U. R. Rao Road, Jalahalli Bengaluru 560012 India
- Department of Chemistry, Mangalore University Mangalagangotri 574 199 India
| | - D S Shankar Rao
- Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS) P. B. No. 1329, Prof. U. R. Rao Road, Jalahalli Bengaluru 560012 India
| | - S Krishna Prasad
- Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences (CeNS) P. B. No. 1329, Prof. U. R. Rao Road, Jalahalli Bengaluru 560012 India
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16
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Filtering of yellow light in a liquid-crystal light shutter for higher color contrast and reduced glare. J Mol Liq 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molliq.2020.114846] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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17
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Yang J, Zhang X, Zhang X, Wang L, Feng W, Li Q. Beyond the Visible: Bioinspired Infrared Adaptive Materials. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2021; 33:e2004754. [PMID: 33624900 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202004754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2020] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Infrared (IR) adaptation phenomena are ubiquitous in nature and biological systems. Taking inspiration from natural creatures, researchers have devoted extensive efforts for developing advanced IR adaptive materials and exploring their applications in areas of smart camouflage, thermal energy management, biomedical science, and many other IR-related technological fields. Herein, an up-to-date review is provided on the recent advancements of bioinspired IR adaptive materials and their promising applications. First an overview of IR adaptation in nature and advanced artificial IR technologies is presented. Recent endeavors are then introduced toward developing bioinspired adaptive materials for IR camouflage and IR radiative cooling. According to the Stefan-Boltzmann law, IR camouflage can be realized by either emissivity engineering or thermal cloaks. IR radiative cooling can maximize the thermal radiation of an object through an IR atmospheric transparency window, and thus holds great potential for use in energy-efficient green buildings and smart personal thermal management systems. Recent advances in bioinspired adaptive materials for emerging near-IR (NIR) applications are also discussed, including NIR-triggered biological technologies, NIR light-fueled soft robotics, and NIR light-driven supramolecular nanosystems. This review concludes with a perspective on the challenges and opportunities for the future development of bioinspired IR adaptive materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiajia Yang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Xinfang Zhang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, China
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44242, USA
| | - Xuan Zhang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Ling Wang
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Wei Feng
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, 300350, China
- Key Laboratory of Advanced Ceramics and Machining Technology, Ministry of Education, Tianjin, 300350, China
| | - Quan Li
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44242, USA
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18
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van Cleuvenbergen S, Depotter G, Clays K, Kędziora P. Second-order NLO response in chiral ferroelectric liquid crystals: Molecular and bulk consideration. J Mol Liq 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molliq.2021.115328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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19
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Perera K, Nemati A, Mann EK, Hegmann T, Jákli A. Converging Microlens Array Using Nematic Liquid Crystals Doped with Chiral Nanoparticles. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2021; 13:4574-4582. [PMID: 33411492 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.0c21044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Nematic liquid crystals of achiral molecules or racemic mixtures of chiral ones form flat films when suspended in submillimeter size grids and submerged under water. Recently, it has been shown (Popov et al., 2017) that films of nematic liquid crystals doped with chiral molecules adopt biconvex lens shapes underwater. The curved shape together with degenerate planar anchoring leads to a radial variation of the optical axis along the plane of the film, providing a Pancharatnam-Berry-type phase lens that modifies geometric optical imaging. Here, we describe nematic liquid crystal microlenses formed by the addition of chiral nanoparticles. It is found that the helical twisting power of the nanoparticles, the key factor to form the lens, is about 400 μm-1, greater than that of the strongest molecular chiral dopants. We demonstrate imaging capabilities and measure the shape as well as the focal length of the chiral nanoparticle-doped liquid crystal lens. We show that measuring the shape of the lens allows one to calculate the helical pitch of the chiral nematic liquid crystal and thus determine the helical twisting power of the chiral ligand-capped nanoparticles. Such measurements require the use of only nanograms of chiral nanoparticles, which is 3 orders of magnitude less than that required by conventional techniques. Since NPs are sensitive to external stimuli such as light and electric and magnetic fields, the use of chiral NPs may allow the achievement of tunable optical properties for such microlens arrays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelum Perera
- Physics Department, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
| | - Ahlam Nemati
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
- Materials Science Graduate Program, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
| | - Elizabeth K Mann
- Physics Department, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
- Materials Science Graduate Program, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
| | - Torsten Hegmann
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
- Materials Science Graduate Program, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
- Brain Health Research Institute, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
| | - Antal Jákli
- Physics Department, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
- Materials Science Graduate Program, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
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20
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Preparation of transparent BaSO4 nanodispersions by high-gravity reactive precipitation combined with surface modification for transparent X-ray shielding nanocomposite films. Front Chem Sci Eng 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s11705-020-1985-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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21
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Sequentially amplified circularly polarized ultraviolet luminescence for enantioselective photopolymerization. Nat Commun 2020; 11:5659. [PMID: 33168825 PMCID: PMC7652877 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-19479-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Chiral optical materials based on circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) have emerged rapidly due to their feasible applications in diverse fields of research. However, limited to the small luminescence dissymmetry factor (glum), real application examples have rarely been reported. Here, we present a complex system, which show intense circularly polarized ultraviolet luminescence (CPUVL) with large glum value, enabling a chiral UV light triggered enantioselective polymerization. By integrating sensitized triplet-triplet annihilation upconversion and CPL, both visible-to-UV upconversion emission and upconverted circularly polarized ultraviolet luminescence (UC-CPUVL) were obtained in the systems, built of chiral annihilator R(S)-4,12-biphenyl[2,2]paracyclophane (R-/S-TP), and a thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) sensitizer. After dispersing this upconversion system into room-temperature nematic liquid crystal, induced chiral nematic liquid crystal could significantly amplify the glum value (0.19) of UC-CPUVL. Further, the UC-CPUVL emission has been used to trigger the enantioselective photopolymerization of diacetylene. This work paves the way for the further development of functional application of CPL active materials.
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22
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Wang L, Urbas AM, Li Q. Nature-Inspired Emerging Chiral Liquid Crystal Nanostructures: From Molecular Self-Assembly to DNA Mesophase and Nanocolloids. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2020; 32:e1801335. [PMID: 30160812 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201801335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 158] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2018] [Revised: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Liquid crystals (LCs) are omnipresent in living matter, whose chirality is an elegant and distinct feature in certain plant tissues, the cuticles of crabs, beetles, arthropods, and beyond. Taking inspiration from nature, researchers have recently devoted extensive efforts toward developing chiral liquid crystalline materials with self-organized nanostructures and exploring their potential applications in diverse fields ranging from dynamic photonics to energy and safety issues. In this review, an account on the state of the art of emerging chiral liquid crystalline nanostructured materials and their technological applications is provided. First, an overview on the significance of chiral liquid crystalline architectures in various living systems is given. Then, the recent significant progress in different chiral liquid crystalline systems including thermotropic LCs (cholesteric LCs, cubic blue phases, achiral bent-core LCs, etc.) and lyotropic LCs (DNA LCs, nanocellulose LCs, and graphene oxide LCs) is showcased. The review concludes with a perspective on the future scope, opportunities, and challenges in these truly advanced functional soft materials and their promising applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Wang
- Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44242, USA
| | - Augustine M Urbas
- Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson AFB, OH, 45433, USA
| | - Quan Li
- Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44242, USA
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23
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Zheng ZG, Lu YQ, Li Q. Photoprogrammable Mesogenic Soft Helical Architectures: A Promising Avenue toward Future Chiro-Optics. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2020; 32:e1905318. [PMID: 32483915 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201905318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Revised: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Mesogenic soft materials, having single or multiple mesogen moieties per molecule, commonly exhibit typical self-organization characteristics, which promotes the formation of elegant helical superstructures or supramolecular assemblies in chiral environments. Such helical superstructures play key roles in the propagation of circularly polarized light and display optical properties with prominent handedness, that is, chiro-optical properties. The leveraging of light to program the chiro-optical properties of such mesogenic helical soft materials by homogeneously dispersing photosensitive chiral material into an achiral soft system or covalently connecting photochromic moieties to the molecules has attracted considerable attention in terms of materials, properties, and potential applications and has been a thriving topic in both fundamental science and application engineering. State-of-the-art technologies are described in terms of the material design, synthesis, properties, and modulation of photoprogrammable chiro-optical mesogenic soft helical architectures. Additionally, the scientific issues and technical problems that hinder further development of these materials for use in various fields are outlined and discussed. Such photoprogrammable mesogenic soft helical materials are competitive candidates for use in stimulus-controllable chiro-optical devices with high optical efficiency, stable optical properties, and easy miniaturization, facilitating the future integration and systemization of chiro-optical chips in photonics, photochemistry, biomedical engineering, chemical engineering, and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Gang Zheng
- Department of Physics, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai, 200237, China
| | - Yan-Qing Lu
- National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructures, Key Laboratory of Intelligent Optical Sensing and Manipulation, Collaborative Innovation Center of Advanced Microstructures and College of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China
| | - Quan Li
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44242, USA
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24
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Wang H, Bisoyi HK, Li BX, McConney ME, Bunning TJ, Li Q. Visible-Light-Driven Halogen Bond Donor Based Molecular Switches: From Reversible Unwinding to Handedness Inversion in Self-Organized Soft Helical Superstructures. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020; 59:2684-2687. [PMID: 31802595 DOI: 10.1002/anie.201913977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Visible-light-driven molecular switches endowing reversible modulation of the functionalities of self-organized soft materials are currently highly sought after for fundamental scientific studies and technological applications. Reported herein are the design and synthesis of two novel halogen bond donor based chiral molecular switches that exhibit reversible photoisomerization upon exposure to visible light of different wavelengths. These chiral molecular switches induce photoresponsive helical superstructures, that is, cholesteric liquid crystals, when doped into the commercially available room-temperature achiral liquid crystal host 5CB, which also acts as a halogen-bond acceptor. The induced helical superstructure containing the molecular switch with terminal iodo atoms exhibits visible-light-driven reversible unwinding, that is, a cholesteric-nematic phase transition. Interestingly, the molecular switch with terminal bromo atoms confers reversible handedness inversion to the helical superstructure upon irradiation with visible light of different wavelengths. This visible-light-driven, reversible handedness inversion, enabled by a halogen bond donor molecular switch, is unprecedented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wang
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44242, USA
| | - Hari Krishna Bisoyi
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44242, USA
| | - Bing-Xiang Li
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44242, USA
| | - Michael E McConney
- Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson AFB, OH, 45433, USA
| | - Timothy J Bunning
- Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson AFB, OH, 45433, USA
| | - Quan Li
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44242, USA
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25
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Wang H, Bisoyi HK, Li B, McConney ME, Bunning TJ, Li Q. Visible‐Light‐Driven Halogen Bond Donor Based Molecular Switches: From Reversible Unwinding to Handedness Inversion in Self‐Organized Soft Helical Superstructures. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2020. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201913977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wang
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program Kent State University Kent OH 44242 USA
| | - Hari Krishna Bisoyi
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program Kent State University Kent OH 44242 USA
| | - Bing‐Xiang Li
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program Kent State University Kent OH 44242 USA
| | - Michael E. McConney
- Materials and Manufacturing Directorate Air Force Research Laboratory Wright-Patterson AFB OH 45433 USA
| | - Timothy J. Bunning
- Materials and Manufacturing Directorate Air Force Research Laboratory Wright-Patterson AFB OH 45433 USA
| | - Quan Li
- Advanced Materials and Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program Kent State University Kent OH 44242 USA
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26
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Peng H, Yu L, Chen G, Xue Z, Liao Y, Zhu J, Xie X, Smalyukh II, Wei Y. Liquid Crystalline Nanocolloids for the Storage of Electro-Optic Responsive Images. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2019; 11:8612-8624. [PMID: 30714369 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.8b22636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Liquid crystalline nanocolloids (LCNCs), which are nanostructured composites comprising nanoparticles (NPs) and a liquid crystal (LC) host, have attracted a great deal of attention because of their promising new fundamental physical behaviors and functional properties. Yet, it still remains a big challenge to pattern LCNCs into mesoscale-ordered structures due to the limited NP loading in the LC host. Here, we demonstrate LCNCs in the nematic phase with a high NP loading (∼42 wt %) by in situ co-functionalizing the NP with alkyl and mesogenic ligands. The LCNCs can be assembled into ordered structures through holographic photopolymerization-induced phase separation, giving rise to holographic polymer-dispersed nematic nanocolloids (HPDNNC). Interestingly, high diffraction efficiency, low light-scattering loss, and unique electric-switchable capability are realized in the HPDNNC. In addition, high-quality switchable and unclonable colored images are reconstructed, promising a host of advanced applications (e.g., anticounterfeiting). Our findings pave a way to advance the fundamental understanding of nanostructured LCs and their practical utility in enabling a new breed of inorganic-organic composite materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyan Peng
- Key Lab for Material Chemistry of Energy Conversion and Storage, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, and National Anti-Counterfeit Engineering Research Center , Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST) , Wuhan 430074 , China
- Sino-US Joint Research Center on Liquid Crystal Chemistry and Physics , HUST and CUB , Wuhan 430074 , China
| | - Lei Yu
- Key Lab for Material Chemistry of Energy Conversion and Storage, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, and National Anti-Counterfeit Engineering Research Center , Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST) , Wuhan 430074 , China
| | - Guannan Chen
- Key Lab for Material Chemistry of Energy Conversion and Storage, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, and National Anti-Counterfeit Engineering Research Center , Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST) , Wuhan 430074 , China
| | - Zhigang Xue
- Key Lab for Material Chemistry of Energy Conversion and Storage, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, and National Anti-Counterfeit Engineering Research Center , Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST) , Wuhan 430074 , China
| | - Yonggui Liao
- Key Lab for Material Chemistry of Energy Conversion and Storage, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, and National Anti-Counterfeit Engineering Research Center , Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST) , Wuhan 430074 , China
| | - Jintao Zhu
- Key Lab for Material Chemistry of Energy Conversion and Storage, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, and National Anti-Counterfeit Engineering Research Center , Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST) , Wuhan 430074 , China
| | - Xiaolin Xie
- Key Lab for Material Chemistry of Energy Conversion and Storage, Ministry of Education, School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, and National Anti-Counterfeit Engineering Research Center , Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST) , Wuhan 430074 , China
- Sino-US Joint Research Center on Liquid Crystal Chemistry and Physics , HUST and CUB , Wuhan 430074 , China
| | - Ivan I Smalyukh
- Department of Physics and Materials Science and Engineering Program , University of Colorado at Boulder (CUB) , Boulder , Colorado 80309 , United States
- Sino-US Joint Research Center on Liquid Crystal Chemistry and Physics , HUST and CUB , Wuhan 430074 , China
| | - Yen Wei
- Department of Chemistry , Tsinghua University , Beijing 100084 , China
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27
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Zola RS, Bisoyi HK, Wang H, Urbas AM, Bunning TJ, Li Q. Dynamic Control of Light Direction Enabled by Stimuli-Responsive Liquid Crystal Gratings. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2019; 31:e1806172. [PMID: 30570775 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201806172] [Citation(s) in RCA: 88] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2018] [Revised: 10/22/2018] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
The ability to control light direction with tailored precision via facile means is long-desired in science and industry. With the advances in optics, a periodic structure called diffraction grating gains prominence and renders a more flexible control over light propagation when compared to prisms. Today, diffraction gratings are common components in wavelength division multiplexing devices, monochromators, lasers, spectrometers, media storage, beam steering, and many other applications. Next-generation optical devices, however, demand nonmechanical, full and remote control, besides generating higher than 1D diffraction patterns with as few optical elements as possible. Liquid crystals (LCs) are great candidates for light control since they can form various patterns under different stimuli, including periodic structures capable of behaving as diffraction gratings. The characteristics of such gratings depend on several physical properties of the LCs such as film thickness, periodicity, and molecular orientation, all resulting from the internal constraints of the sample, and all of these are easily controllable. In this review, the authors summarize the research and development on stimuli-controllable diffraction gratings and beam steering using LCs as the active optical materials. Dynamic gratings fabricated by applying external field forces or surface treatments and made of chiral and nonchiral LCs with and without polymer networks are described. LC gratings capable of switching under external stimuli such as light, electric and magnetic fields, heat, and chemical composition are discussed. The focus is on the materials, designs, applications, and future prospects of diffraction gratings using LC materials as active layers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael S Zola
- Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, OH, 44242, USA
- Departamento de Física, Universidade Tecnológica Federal do Parana, Rua Marcílio Dias, 635, 86812-460, Apucarana, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Hari Krishna Bisoyi
- Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, OH, 44242, USA
| | - Hao Wang
- Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, OH, 44242, USA
| | - Augustine M Urbas
- Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson AFB, OH, 45433, USA
| | - Timothy J Bunning
- Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson AFB, OH, 45433, USA
| | - Quan Li
- Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, OH, 44242, USA
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28
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Wang H, Bisoyi HK, Urbas AM, Bunning TJ, Li Q. The Halogen Bond: An Emerging Supramolecular Tool in the Design of Functional Mesomorphic Materials. Chemistry 2018; 25:1369-1378. [DOI: 10.1002/chem.201802927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Hao Wang
- Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program Kent State University Kent Ohio 44242 USA
| | - Hari Krishna Bisoyi
- Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program Kent State University Kent Ohio 44242 USA
| | - Augustine M. Urbas
- Materials and Manufacturing Directorate Air Force Research Laboratory Wright-Patterson AFB Ohio 45433 USA
| | - Timothy J. Bunning
- Materials and Manufacturing Directorate Air Force Research Laboratory Wright-Patterson AFB Ohio 45433 USA
| | - Quan Li
- Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program Kent State University Kent Ohio 44242 USA
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29
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Lu F, Jang K, Osica I, Hagiwara K, Yoshizawa M, Ishii M, Chino Y, Ohta K, Ludwichowska K, Kurzydłowski KJ, Ishihara S, Nakanishi T. Supercooling of functional alkyl-π molecular liquids. Chem Sci 2018; 9:6774-6778. [PMID: 30294417 PMCID: PMC6166271 DOI: 10.1039/c8sc02723d] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Metastable states of soft matters are extensively used in designing stimuli-responsive materials. However, the non-steady properties may obstruct consistent performance. Here we report an approach to eradicate the indistinguishable metastable supercooled state of functional molecular liquids (FMLs), which remains as a liquid for weeks or months before crystallizing, via rational molecular design. The phases (solid, kinetically stable liquid, and supercooled liquid) of a model FML, branched alkyl chain-substituted 9,10-diphenylanthracene (DPA), are found to be governed by subtle alterations of the molecular structure (alkyl-DPA ratio and bulkiness of the DPA unit). We thus outline molecular design principles to avoid supercooled FML formation. Moreover, we demonstrate a practical technique to rapidly discriminate supercooled FMLs (within 5 h) by accelerating their crystallization in differential scanning calorimetry heating via pre-annealing or relatively slow scanning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengniu Lu
- International Center for Materials Nanoarchitectonics (WPI-MANA) , National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS) , 1-1 Namiki , Tsukuba 305-0044 , Japan .
| | - Keumhee Jang
- International Center for Materials Nanoarchitectonics (WPI-MANA) , National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS) , 1-1 Namiki , Tsukuba 305-0044 , Japan .
| | - Izabela Osica
- Materials Design Division , Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering , Warsaw University of Technology , Woloska 141 , 02-507 Warsaw , Poland
| | - Keita Hagiwara
- Laboratory for Chemistry and Life Science , Institute of Innovative Research , Tokyo Institute of Technology , 4259 Nagatsuta , Midori-ku , Yokohama 226-8503 , Japan
| | - Michito Yoshizawa
- Laboratory for Chemistry and Life Science , Institute of Innovative Research , Tokyo Institute of Technology , 4259 Nagatsuta , Midori-ku , Yokohama 226-8503 , Japan
| | - Masashi Ishii
- Materials Data Platform Center , Research and Services Division of Materials Data and Integrated System (MaDIS) , NIMS , 1-2-1 Sengen , Tsukuba 305-0047 , Japan
| | - Yoshiaki Chino
- Smart Material Science and Technology , Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Science and Technology , Shinshu University , 1-15-1 Tokida , Ueda 386-8567 , Japan
| | - Kazuchika Ohta
- Smart Material Science and Technology , Interdisciplinary Graduate School of Science and Technology , Shinshu University , 1-15-1 Tokida , Ueda 386-8567 , Japan
| | - Kinga Ludwichowska
- Materials Design Division , Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering , Warsaw University of Technology , Woloska 141 , 02-507 Warsaw , Poland
| | - Krzysztof Jan Kurzydłowski
- Materials Design Division , Faculty of Materials Science and Engineering , Warsaw University of Technology , Woloska 141 , 02-507 Warsaw , Poland
| | - Shinsuke Ishihara
- International Center for Materials Nanoarchitectonics (WPI-MANA) , National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS) , 1-1 Namiki , Tsukuba 305-0044 , Japan .
| | - Takashi Nakanishi
- International Center for Materials Nanoarchitectonics (WPI-MANA) , National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS) , 1-1 Namiki , Tsukuba 305-0044 , Japan .
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30
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Choudhary A, George TF, Li G. Conjugation of Nanomaterials and Nematic Liquid Crystals for Futuristic Applications and Biosensors. BIOSENSORS 2018; 8:E69. [PMID: 30011909 PMCID: PMC6165262 DOI: 10.3390/bios8030069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2018] [Revised: 06/24/2018] [Accepted: 07/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The established role of nematic liquid crystals (NLCs) in the recent rapid development of displays has motivated researchers to modulate the electro-optical properties of LCs. Furthermore, adding nanomaterials into NLCs has led to enhancements of the properties of NLCs, like reduced threshold of the operating voltage, variation in pretilt angle, reduced switching time, etc. These enhanced properties, due to interfacial dynamics, are enabling wider applications of NLCs and nanomaterials. The recent literature of nanomaterial-doped NLCs is rich with various kinds of nanomaterials in a variety of NLCs. The light has been focused on the most widely used and studied gold nanoparticles in NLCs. The intrinsic inherent property of easy excitation of surface plasmons polaritons (SPP) is the mediating interaction of NLC electric dipoles and the polarization of charges in the GNP surface. The concepts and methods for the application of metal nanomaterials as dopants in NLCs are discussed for future applications, especially biosensors. The biosensing application of NLCs alone has already been proven in the literature. However, it is always desirable to further enhance the detection efficiency and selectivity, which have been achieved by the conjugation of GNPs and nickel nanoparticles with NLCs and their compatibility with biological materials. This aspect of future application of nanoparticles and NLC makes the point more selective to be included in the present manuscript.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amit Choudhary
- Department of Physics, Deshbandhu College, University of Delhi, Kalkaji, New Delhi 110019, India.
| | - Thomas F George
- Departments of Chemistry & Biochemistry and Physics & Astronomy, University of Missouri⁻St. Louis, St. Louis, MO 63121, USA.
| | - Guoqiang Li
- Visual and Biomedical Optics Lab, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43212, USA.
- Biomolecular Sciences Institute, Florida International University, Miami, FL 33199, USA.
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31
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Bisoyi HK, Bunning TJ, Li Q. Stimuli-Driven Control of the Helical Axis of Self-Organized Soft Helical Superstructures. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2018; 30:e1706512. [PMID: 29603448 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201706512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2017] [Revised: 12/12/2017] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Supramolecular and macromolecular functional helical superstructures are ubiquitous in nature and display an impressive catalog of intriguing and elegant properties and performances. In materials science, self-organized soft helical superstructures, i.e., cholesteric liquid crystals (CLCs), serve as model systems toward the understanding of morphology- and orientation-dependent properties of supramolecular dynamic helical architectures and their potential for technological applications. Moreover, most of the fascinating device applications of CLCs are primarily determined by different orientations of the helical axis. Here, the control of the helical axis orientation of CLCs and its dynamic switching in two and three dimensions using different external stimuli are summarized. Electric-field-, magnetic-field-, and light-irradiation-driven orientation control and reorientation of the helical axis of CLCs are described and highlighted. Different techniques and strategies developed to achieve a uniform lying helix structure are explored. Helical axis control in recently developed heliconical cholesteric systems is examined. The control of the helical axis orientation in spherical geometries such as microdroplets and microshells fabricated from these enticing photonic fluids is also explored. Future challenges and opportunities in this exciting area involving anisotropic chiral liquids are then discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hari Krishna Bisoyi
- Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, OH, 44242, USA
| | - Timothy J Bunning
- Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson AFB, OH, 45433, USA
| | - Quan Li
- Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, OH, 44242, USA
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32
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Xia Y, Zhang X, Yang S. Instant Locking of Molecular Ordering in Liquid Crystal Elastomers by Oxygen‐Mediated Thiol–Acrylate Click Reactions. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2018. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201800366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Xia
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering University of Pennsylvania 3231 Walnut Street Philadelphia PA 19104 USA
| | - Xinyue Zhang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering University of Pennsylvania 3231 Walnut Street Philadelphia PA 19104 USA
| | - Shu Yang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering University of Pennsylvania 3231 Walnut Street Philadelphia PA 19104 USA
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33
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Xia Y, Zhang X, Yang S. Instant Locking of Molecular Ordering in Liquid Crystal Elastomers by Oxygen-Mediated Thiol-Acrylate Click Reactions. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2018; 57:5665-5668. [PMID: 29673017 DOI: 10.1002/anie.201800366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) with intrinsic anisotropic strains are reversible shape-memory polymers of interest in sensor, actuator, and soft robotics applications. Rapid gelation of LCEs is required to fix molecular ordering within the elastomer network, which is essential for directed shape transformation. A highly efficient photo-cross-linking chemistry, based on two-step oxygen-mediated thiol-acrylate click reactions, allows for nearly instant gelation of the main-chain LCE network upon exposure to UV light. Molecular orientation from the pre-aligned liquid crystal oligomers can be faithfully transferred to the LCE films, allowing for preprogrammed shape morphing from two to three dimensions by origami- (folding-only) and kirigami-like (folding with cutting) mechanisms. The new LCE chemistry also enables widely tunable physical properties, including nematic-to- isotropic phase-transition temperatures (TN-I ), glassy transition temperatures (Tg ), and mechanical strains, without disrupting the LC ordering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Xia
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Pennsylvania, 3231 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Xinyue Zhang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Pennsylvania, 3231 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Shu Yang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Pennsylvania, 3231 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
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34
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Wang L, Li Q. Photochromism into nanosystems: towards lighting up the future nanoworld. Chem Soc Rev 2018; 47:1044-1097. [PMID: 29251304 DOI: 10.1039/c7cs00630f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 312] [Impact Index Per Article: 52.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The ability to manipulate the structure and function of promising nanosystems via energy input and external stimuli is emerging as an attractive paradigm for developing reconfigurable and programmable nanomaterials and multifunctional devices. Light stimulus manifestly represents a preferred external physical and chemical tool for in situ remote command of the functional attributes of nanomaterials and nanosystems due to its unique advantages of high spatial and temporal resolution and digital controllability. Photochromic moieties are known to undergo reversible photochemical transformations between different states with distinct properties, which have been extensively introduced into various functional nanosystems such as nanomachines, nanoparticles, nanoelectronics, supramolecular nanoassemblies, and biological nanosystems. The integration of photochromism into these nanosystems has endowed the resultant nanostructures or advanced materials with intriguing photoresponsive behaviors and more sophisticated functions. In this Review, we provide an account of the recent advancements in reversible photocontrol of the structures and functions of photochromic nanosystems and their applications. The important design concepts of such truly advanced materials are discussed, their fabrication methods are emphasized, and their applications are highlighted. The Review is concluded by briefly outlining the challenges that need to be addressed and the opportunities that can be tapped into. We hope that the review of the flourishing and vibrant topic with myriad possibilities would shine light on exploring the future nanoworld by encouraging and opening the windows to meaningful multidisciplinary cooperation of engineers from different backgrounds and scientists from the fields such as chemistry, physics, engineering, biology, nanotechnology and materials science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Wang
- Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, USA.
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35
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Zhang W, Zhang L, Zhou L, Zhang J, Li F, Li K, Yang H. An all-liquid crystal based high-performance laser protection system via linear/nonlinear dual-mechanisms. Chem Commun (Camb) 2018; 54:397-400. [DOI: 10.1039/c7cc05250b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
An all-liquid crystal based laser protection system based on mesogenic [60]fullerences and CLCs is reported that integrates an excellent optical limiting response, a broadband protection range, and good practicability simultaneously.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wanshu Zhang
- Department of Materials Physics and Chemistry
- University of Science and Technology Beijing
- Beijing
- P. R. China
| | - Lanying Zhang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering
- College of Engineering
- Peking University
- Beijing 100871
- P. R. China
| | - Le Zhou
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering
- College of Engineering
- Peking University
- Beijing 100871
- P. R. China
| | - Jingxuan Zhang
- Qiushi Honors College, Tianjin University
- Tianjin 300350
- P. R. China
| | - Fasheng Li
- Department of Chemistry
- Dalian Medical University
- Dalian 116044
- P. R. China
| | - Kexuan Li
- Department of Applied Statistics and Science
- Xijing University
- Xian 710123
- P. R. China
| | - Huai Yang
- Department of Materials Physics and Chemistry
- University of Science and Technology Beijing
- Beijing
- P. R. China
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering
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36
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Liang X, Guo C, Chen M, Guo S, Zhang L, Li F, Guo S, Yang H. A roll-to-roll process for multi-responsive soft-matter composite films containing Cs xWO 3 nanorods for energy-efficient smart window applications. NANOSCALE HORIZONS 2017; 2:319-325. [PMID: 32260661 DOI: 10.1039/c7nh00105c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
This work provides a roll-to-roll processed flexible multi-responsive smart film containing tungsten bronze nanorods and a phase-separated liquid crystal-polymer composite, which can reversibly control the passage of visible light in response to temperature, an electric field and near infrared light, and also screen the heat rays from 800 nm to 2500 nm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao Liang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, College of Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, People's Republic of China.
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37
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Zhang Q, Serpe MJ, Mugo SM. Stimuli Responsive Polymer-Based 3D Optical Crystals for Sensing. Polymers (Basel) 2017; 9:E436. [PMID: 30965852 PMCID: PMC6418830 DOI: 10.3390/polym9110436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2017] [Revised: 08/23/2017] [Accepted: 08/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
3D optical crystals have found their applications in sensing, actuation, optical devices, batteries, supercapacitors, etc. The 3D optical crystal devices are comprised of two main components: colloidal gels and nanoparticles. Nanoparticles self-assemble into face center cubic structures in colloidal gels. The inherent 3D optical crystal structure leads to display of structural colors on these devices following light impingement. As such, these optical properties have led to the utilization of these 3D optical crystals as self-reporting colorimetric sensors, which is the focus of this review paper. While there is extensive work done so far on these materials to exhaustively be covered in this review, we focus here in on: mechanism of color display, materials and preparation of 3D optical crystals, introduction of recent sensing examples, and combination of 3D optical crystals with molecular imprinting technology. The aim of this review is to familiarize the reader with recent developments in the area and to encourage further research in this field to overcome some of its challenges as well as to inspire creative innovations of these materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Electroanalytical Chemistry, Changchun Institute of Applied Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 5625 Renmin Street, Changchun 130022, China.
| | - Michael J Serpe
- Department of Chemistry, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2G2, Canada.
| | - Samuel M Mugo
- Physical Sciences Department, MacEwan University, Edmonton, AB T5J 4S2, Canada.
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38
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Tian K, Li R, Wang H, Chen Y, Guo W, Wang Y, Xu Z. Monomer Protonation-Dependent Surface Polymerization to Achieve One-Step Grafting Cross-Linked Poly(4-Vinylpyridine) Onto Core-Shell Fe 3 O 4 @SiO 2 Nanoparticles. Macromol Rapid Commun 2017; 38. [PMID: 29027296 DOI: 10.1002/marc.201700494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2017] [Revised: 08/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Functional polymer-grafting silica nanoparticles hold great promise in diverse applications such as molecule recognition, drug delivery, and heterogeneous catalysis due to high density and uniform distribution of functional groups and their tunable spatial distance. However, conventional grafting methods from monomers mainly consist of one or more extra surface modification steps and a subsequent surface polymerization step. A monomer protonation-dependent surface polymerization strategy is proposed to achieve one-step uniform surface grafting of cross-linked poly(4-vinylpyridine) (P4VP) onto core-shell Fe3 O4 @SiO2 nanostructures. At an approximate pH, partially protonated 4VP sites in aqueous solution can be strongly adsorbed onto deprotonated silanol groups (SiO- ) onto Fe3 O4 @SiO2 nanospheres to ensure prior polymerization of these protonated 4VP sites exclusively onto Fe3 O4 @SiO2 nanoparticles and subsequent polymerization of other 4VP and divinylbenzene monomers harvested by these protonated 4VP monomers onto Fe3 O4 @SiO2 nanoparticles, thereby achieving direct grafting of cross-linked P4VP macromolecules onto Fe3 O4 @SiO2 nanoparticles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kesong Tian
- Key Laboratory of Applied Chemistry of Hebei Province, College of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Yanshan University, 066004, Qinhuangdao, P. R. China
| | - Ruifei Li
- Key Laboratory of Applied Chemistry of Hebei Province, College of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Yanshan University, 066004, Qinhuangdao, P. R. China
| | - Haiyan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Applied Chemistry of Hebei Province, College of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Yanshan University, 066004, Qinhuangdao, P. R. China
| | - Yan Chen
- Key Laboratory of Applied Chemistry of Hebei Province, College of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Yanshan University, 066004, Qinhuangdao, P. R. China
| | - Wanchun Guo
- Key Laboratory of Applied Chemistry of Hebei Province, College of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Yanshan University, 066004, Qinhuangdao, P. R. China
| | - Yaqi Wang
- Key Laboratory of Applied Chemistry of Hebei Province, College of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Yanshan University, 066004, Qinhuangdao, P. R. China
| | - Zhaopeng Xu
- Key Laboratory for Special Fiber and Fiber Sensor of Hebei Province, School of Information Science and Engineering, Yanshan University, 066004, Qinhuangdao, P. R. China
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Wang L, Chen D, Gutierrez-Cuevas KG, Bisoyi HK, Fan J, Zola RS, Li G, Urbas AM, Bunning TJ, Weitz DA, Li Q. Optically Reconfigurable Chiral Microspheres of Self-Organized Helical Superstructures with Handedness Inversion. MATERIALS HORIZONS 2017; 4:1190-1195. [PMID: 29403644 PMCID: PMC5796552 DOI: 10.1039/c7mh00644f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Optically reconfigurable monodisperse chiral microspheres of self-organized helical superstructures with dynamic chirality were fabricated via a capillary-based microfluidic technique. Light-driven handedness-invertible transformations between different configurations of microspheres were vividly observed and optically tunable RGB photonic cross-communications among the microspheres were demonstrated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Wang
- Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
| | - Dong Chen
- School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138, United States
| | - Karla G. Gutierrez-Cuevas
- Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
| | - Hari Krishna Bisoyi
- Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
| | - Jing Fan
- School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138, United States
| | - Rafael S. Zola
- Departamento de Física, Universidade Tecnológica Federal do Paraná-Apucarana, PR 86812-460, Brazil
| | - Guoqiang Li
- Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Science and Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43212, United States
| | - Augustine M. Urbas
- Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio 45433, United States
| | - Timothy J. Bunning
- Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio 45433, United States
| | - David A. Weitz
- School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138, United States
| | - Quan Li
- Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
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40
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Ye L, Feng Y, Cheng Z, Wang C, Lu C, Lu Y, Cui Y. Coherent Random Lasing from Dye Aggregates in Polydimethylsiloxane Thin Films. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2017; 9:27232-27238. [PMID: 28738156 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.7b07464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The coherent random laser (CRL) from dye-doped polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) has been investigated in both nanoparticle-doped (NP-doped) thin films and pure dye thin films. Compared with the literature, the pump threshold is only 1.5 mJ/cm2 in the pure dye thin film with a low dye concentration. The spontaneously formed micro-/nanocrystals of Pyrromethene 597 (PM597) dye support both gain and random feedback in the bulk of the PDMS during the sample preparation. When the SiO2 NPs were doped, the pump threshold was reduced to 0.75 mJ/cm2. The threshold increased after the film was peeled off from glass, which indicates that the photon localization effect of the leaky-waveguide structure plays an important role in the reduction of the CRL threshold. By a change in the pump stripe length or the thickness of the film, the peak wavelength red-shifts 6.7 or 5.93 nm, respectively. The PM597 dye molecule solubility changes, and they spontaneously aggregate in the process of toluene volatilization; the PDMS cures, which is the reason for the formation of PM597 micro-/nanocrystals. This thin film random laser with a low dye concentration can be used in integrated optoelectronics and display imaging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lihua Ye
- Advanced Photonics Center, School of Electronic Science and Engineering, Southeast University , Nanjing 210018, P. R. China
| | - Yangyang Feng
- Advanced Photonics Center, School of Electronic Science and Engineering, Southeast University , Nanjing 210018, P. R. China
| | - Zhixiang Cheng
- Advanced Photonics Center, School of Electronic Science and Engineering, Southeast University , Nanjing 210018, P. R. China
| | - Chunlei Wang
- Advanced Photonics Center, School of Electronic Science and Engineering, Southeast University , Nanjing 210018, P. R. China
| | - Changgui Lu
- Advanced Photonics Center, School of Electronic Science and Engineering, Southeast University , Nanjing 210018, P. R. China
| | - Yanqing Lu
- College of Engineering, Applied Sciences and National Laboratory of Solid State Microstructures, Nanjing University , Nanjing 210093, P. R. China
| | - Yiping Cui
- Advanced Photonics Center, School of Electronic Science and Engineering, Southeast University , Nanjing 210018, P. R. China
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41
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van Cleuvenbergen S, Kędziora P, Fillaut JL, Verbiest T, Clays K, Akdas-Kilig H, Camerel F. Chiral Side Groups Trigger Second Harmonic Generation Activity in 3D Octupolar Bipyrimidine-Based Organic Liquid Crystals. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2017. [DOI: 10.1002/ange.201705138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Stijn van Cleuvenbergen
- Department of Chemistry; Katholieke Universiteit Leuven; Celestijnenlaan 200D and F 3001 Leuven Belgium
| | - Przemysław Kędziora
- Polish Academy of Sciences; Institute of Molecular Physics; Smoluchowskiego 17 60-179 Poznań Poland
| | - Jean-Luc Fillaut
- Institut des Sciences Chimiques de Rennes; UMR 6226 CNRS-; Université de Rennes 1; Campus de Beaulieu 35042 Rennes France
| | - Thierry Verbiest
- Department of Chemistry; Katholieke Universiteit Leuven; Celestijnenlaan 200D and F 3001 Leuven Belgium
| | - Koen Clays
- Department of Chemistry; Katholieke Universiteit Leuven; Celestijnenlaan 200D and F 3001 Leuven Belgium
| | - Huriye Akdas-Kilig
- Institut des Sciences Chimiques de Rennes; UMR 6226 CNRS-; Université de Rennes 1; Campus de Beaulieu 35042 Rennes France
| | - Franck Camerel
- Institut des Sciences Chimiques de Rennes; UMR 6226 CNRS-; Université de Rennes 1; Campus de Beaulieu 35042 Rennes France
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42
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Zheng ZG, Zola RS, Bisoyi HK, Wang L, Li Y, Bunning TJ, Li Q. Controllable Dynamic Zigzag Pattern Formation in a Soft Helical Superstructure. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2017; 29:1701903. [PMID: 28590069 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201701903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2017] [Revised: 05/09/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Zigzag pattern formation is a common and important phenomenon in nature serving a multitude of purposes. For example, the zigzag-shaped edge of green leaves boosts the transportation and absorption of nutrients. However, the elucidation of this complicated shape formation is challenging in fluid mechanics and soft condensed matter systems. Herein, a dynamically reconfigurable zigzag pattern deformation of a soft helical superstructure is demonstrated in a photoresponsive self-organized cholesteric liquid crystal superstructure under the simultaneous influence of an applied electric field and light irradiation. The zigzag-shaped pattern can not only be generated and terminated repeatedly on demand, but can also be easily manipulated by alternating irradiation of ultraviolet and visible light while under the influence of a sustained electric field. This unique behavior results from a delicate balance among the variable experimental parameters. The evolution of the zigzag-shaped pattern is successfully modeled by numerical simulations and has been monitored through diffraction of a probe laser. Interestingly, this fascinating zigzag-shaped pattern yields crescent-shaped diffraction pattern. The reversibly controllable dynamic zigzag pattern could enable the fabrication of novel photonic devices and architectures, besides greatly advancing the fundamental understanding of temporal behavior of ordered soft materials under combined stimuli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Gang Zheng
- Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44242, USA
| | - Rafael S Zola
- Departamento de Fisica, Universidade Tecnológica Federal do Parana-Campus Apucarana, RuaMarcílio Dias, 635, 86812-460, Apucarana, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Hari Krishna Bisoyi
- Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44242, USA
| | - Ling Wang
- Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44242, USA
| | - Yannian Li
- Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44242, USA
| | - Timothy J Bunning
- Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson AFB, OH, 45433, USA
| | - Quan Li
- Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44242, USA
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43
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van Cleuvenbergen S, Kędziora P, Fillaut JL, Verbiest T, Clays K, Akdas-Kilig H, Camerel F. Chiral Side Groups Trigger Second Harmonic Generation Activity in 3D Octupolar Bipyrimidine-Based Organic Liquid Crystals. Angew Chem Int Ed Engl 2017; 56:9546-9550. [PMID: 28675543 DOI: 10.1002/anie.201705138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The design of efficient noncentrosymmetric materials remains the ultimate goal in the field of organic second-order nonlinear optics. Unlike inorganic crystals currently used in second-order nonlinear optical applications, organic materials are an attractive alternative owing to their fast electro-optical response and processability, but their alignment into noncentrosymmetric film remains challenging. Here, symmetry breaking by judicious functionalization of 3D organic octupoles allows the emergence of multifunctional liquid crystalline chromophores which can easily be processed into large, flexible, thin, and self-oriented films with second harmonic generation responses competitive to the prototypical inorganic KH2 PO4 crystals. The liquid-crystalline nature of these chiral organic films also permits the modulation of the nonlinear optical properties owing to the sensitivity of the supramolecular organization to temperature, leading to the development of tunable macroscopic materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stijn van Cleuvenbergen
- Department of Chemistry, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Celestijnenlaan 200D and F, 3001, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Przemysław Kędziora
- Polish Academy of Sciences, Institute of Molecular Physics, Smoluchowskiego 17, 60-179, Poznań, Poland
| | - Jean-Luc Fillaut
- Institut des Sciences Chimiques de Rennes, UMR 6226 CNRS-, Université de Rennes 1, Campus de Beaulieu, 35042, Rennes, France
| | - Thierry Verbiest
- Department of Chemistry, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Celestijnenlaan 200D and F, 3001, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Koen Clays
- Department of Chemistry, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, Celestijnenlaan 200D and F, 3001, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Huriye Akdas-Kilig
- Institut des Sciences Chimiques de Rennes, UMR 6226 CNRS-, Université de Rennes 1, Campus de Beaulieu, 35042, Rennes, France
| | - Franck Camerel
- Institut des Sciences Chimiques de Rennes, UMR 6226 CNRS-, Université de Rennes 1, Campus de Beaulieu, 35042, Rennes, France
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44
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Zhang L, Wang L, Hiremath US, Bisoyi HK, Nair GG, Yelamaggad CV, Urbas AM, Bunning TJ, Li Q. Dynamic Orthogonal Switching of a Thermoresponsive Self-Organized Helical Superstructure. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2017; 29:1700676. [PMID: 28401659 DOI: 10.1002/adma.201700676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2017] [Revised: 02/24/2017] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Controllable manipulation of self-organized dynamic superstructures of functional molecular materials by external stimuli is an enabling enterprise. Herein, we have developed a thermally driven, self-organized helical superstructure, i.e., thermoresponsive cholesteric liquid crystal (CLC), by integrating a judiciously chosen thermoresponsive chiral molecular switch into an achiral liquid crystalline medium. The CLC in lying state, in both planar and twisted nematic cells, exhibits reversible in-plane orthogonal switching of its helical axis in response to the combined effect of temperature and electric field. Consequently, the direction of the cholesteric grating has been observed to undergo 90° switching in a single cell, enabling non-mechanical beam steering along two orthogonal directions. The ability to reversibly switch the cholesteric gartings along perpendicular directions by appropriately adjusting temperature and electric field strength could facilitate their applications in 2D beam steering, spectrum scanning, optoelectronics and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingli Zhang
- Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44242, USA
| | - Ling Wang
- Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44242, USA
| | - Uma S Hiremath
- Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences, Jalahalli, Bangalore, 560013, India
| | - Hari Krishna Bisoyi
- Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44242, USA
| | - Geetha G Nair
- Centre for Nano and Soft Matter Sciences, Jalahalli, Bangalore, 560013, India
| | | | - Augustine M Urbas
- Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson AFB, OH, 45433, USA
| | - Timothy J Bunning
- Materials and Manufacturing Directorate, Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright-Patterson AFB, OH, 45433, USA
| | - Quan Li
- Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University, Kent, OH, 44242, USA
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Li WS, Shen Y, Chen ZJ, Cui Q, Li SS, Chen LJ. Demonstration of patterned polymer-stabilized cholesteric liquid crystal textures for anti-counterfeiting two-dimensional barcodes. APPLIED OPTICS 2017; 56:601-606. [PMID: 28157916 DOI: 10.1364/ao.56.000601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
We evaluated the feasibility of embedding periodically arranged squares with planar and vertical texture into a background with a developable-modulation (DM) type cholesteric liquid crystal (CLC) fingerprint texture by a two-step ultraviolet-induced polymerization method. Checker-patterned optical diffractive elements, which can be seen as a variation of a two-dimensional (2D) barcode, were first realized and the dependence of diffraction behaviors on incident light polarization and applied voltage were investigated. Taking advantage of the natural randomness and uncontrollable variations of a DM-type fingerprint textures, a polymer-stabilized CLC (PSCLC) graphic symbol with a 2D barcode pattern was then implemented with enhanced anti-counterfeiting features that are difficult to falsify or duplicate. The results indicate that the multiplexing of nonuniform DM-type fingerprint gratings, cross-polarized light readout, and unique polarization diffraction characteristics can improve the level of security.
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Bisoyi HK, Li Q. Light-Driven Liquid Crystalline Materials: From Photo-Induced Phase Transitions and Property Modulations to Applications. Chem Rev 2016; 116:15089-15166. [PMID: 27936632 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.6b00415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 407] [Impact Index Per Article: 50.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Light-driven phenomena both in living systems and nonliving materials have enabled truly fascinating and incredible dynamic architectures with terrific forms and functions. Recently, liquid crystalline materials endowed with photoresponsive capability have emerged as enticing systems. In this Review, we focus on the developments of light-driven liquid crystalline materials containing photochromic components over the past decade. Design and synthesis of photochromic liquid crystals (LCs), photoinduced phase transitions in LC, and photoalignment and photoorientation of LCs have been covered. Photomodulation of pitch, polarization, lattice constant and handedness inversion of chiral LCs is discussed. Light-driven phenomena and properties of liquid crystalline polymers, elastomers, and networks have also been analyzed. The applications of photoinduced phase transitions, photoalignment, photomodulation of chiral LCs, and photomobile polymers have been highlighted wherever appropriate. The combination of photochromism, liquid crystallinity, and fabrication techniques has enabled some fascinating functional materials which can be driven by ultraviolet, visible, and infrared light irradiation. Nanoscale particles have been incorporated to widen and diversify the scope of the light-driven liquid crystalline materials. The developed materials possess huge potential for applications in optics, photonics, adaptive materials, nanotechnology, etc. The challenges and opportunities in this area are discussed at the end of the Review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hari Krishna Bisoyi
- Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University , Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
| | - Quan Li
- Liquid Crystal Institute and Chemical Physics Interdisciplinary Program, Kent State University , Kent, Ohio 44242, United States
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