Innovative optoactive materials on paper, packages or textiles
Abstract
A Swedish research institute has developed a line of optoactive materials. These materials can be tailored to change color when exposed to different specific stimuli, such as moisture, electricity, pH, stress, chemicals etc. Low-cost, renewable and recyclable materials can be used, in a simple fabrication technique.
The institute is primarily looking for end users of the technology. Also, people with experience in interactive polymers are interesting collaboration partners.
Description
Using small amounts of low-cost, renewable, and recyclable raw materials, the research institute has created optoactive structures. Presently, focus is set on moisture sensitivity, but other stimuli are possible as well. The simple "layer-by-layer" assembling technique enables nano-structure building of the material. This has been utilized in developing new prototypes. When exposed to humidity, or other stimuli, the material expands or contracts, causing interference colorization of the structure. When the moist evaporates, the material returns to its original state, and the color disappears.
Innovative Aspects:
- An optoactive effect is very difficult to manipulate, which makes it a well suited tool for preventing forgery of banknotes etc.
- Low-cost and environmentally friendly materials are used in a simple and inexpensive manufacturing process.
- Added directly to the paper making pulp, the material would also be suitable for image creating or manufacturing of low-cost paper sensors.
- Due to the possibility to develop a material that combines different stimuli, the conceivable areas of use are almost limitless.
