Phys.org October 11, 2023
Microlens construction methods involve multiple fabrication processes, thereby increasing the complexity and cost of fabrication. Researchers in China demonstrated an optically anisotropic, electrically tunable liquid crystal (LC) microlens array using one-step fabrication method. The microlens array was formed via photopolymerization-induced phase separation inside a polymer/LC composite. Without applying voltage, the microlens array had a natural focal length of 8 mm. Upon applying voltage above the threshold, the LC molecules reorient along the electric field direction and the focal length of the microlens array gradually increased. According to the researchers LC microlens arrays could find numerous potential applications owing to their advantageous features of being flat, ultra-thin, and tunable, including 3D displays, optical interconnects… read more. TECHNICAL ARTICLE