Recently, Layer-by-Layer (LBL) self-assemble nanocoating and Spraying LBL nanocoating have been activated to promote functional thin films at environmental friendly condition (water base, normal pressure and room temperature) without dry process. In particular, the optical thin films of display and devices have been expected to shift from high vacuum process to simple wet process. In this research, we report fabrication of the optical thin films by water based process, which could control nano scale film thickness and refractive indexes by layer-by-layer self-assembly method.
We succeeded in synthesizing "light-control films" that controlled the diffusing direction and the 2-dimensional distribution of anisotropic diffusion of the transmitted visible light. Films made of UV-cured acrylates had alternating layer structure of micrometer size and we found that the distribution patterns of the diffused visible light caused by the structure corresponded to the shapes of the light sources for the UV-curing. Based on the discovery, we successfully synthesized the films that diffused the transmitted visible light to square or hexagonal distribution patterns by arranging the UV-LEDs for UV-curing in tetragonal or hexagonal symmetric arrays.
We have recently discovered a novel and facile method for obtaining color-changeable Ag films using an aqueous solution of sulfide as a coloring agent. These color-changeable Ag films have a number of potential applications including coating materials and imaging materials, since the film is easy to prepare, low cost, and applicable to a large area. Promising candidates are the applications as imaging materials. One of interesting candidates as imaging materials is for use in the decoration for the body of briefcase computer and mobile phone.
We have developed a flexible color-pixel sheet based on the electrostatically addressable MEMS (micro electro mechanical systems) Fabry-Perot interferometer array using the printing technology such as gravure, flexo, emboss and ink-jet on a plastic film. This paper reports the design, fabrication process, and optomechanical performance of the developed color pixels.
Electrochromism is defined as reversible color change induced by electrochemical reaction. In this paper, we will introduce physicochemical properties of electrochromic materials which are studied as a material for color electronic paper application. Especially, tone representation with suitable driving method for full color representation and preparation of novel counter material for excellent durability were discussed. Further, novel electrochemical cell which is expected as energy-saving display will be also proposed.