A scientist from the Faculty of Pure and Applied Sciences at Tsukuba University developed a method for producing electrically polished polymers with helical configuration. By using liquid crystal as a template, he was able to produce functional polymers that can convert light into circular polarization. This approach can help to reduce the cost of smart displays. Going into an electronics store these days can be a daunting task if you are walking around a television. TV sizes have grown significantly in recent years, while prices have dropped.
This is due to the adoption of organic light emitting devices (OLEDs), which are carbon-based polymers that can emit visible light waves. These composite polymers, which have single and double alternating bonds, are both electrically operated, and have dyes that can be controlled by chemical doping and other molecules. Their oxidation status can be changed immediately using an electrical voltage, which affects their color. However, future developments may require new materials that could use other types of materials, such as circular polarization.
Now, a researcher from Tsukuba University has introduced a method of making polymers confined to helical configurations, using a liquid crystal template. “Both polymers have optical function and light function can emit circular light,” said author Professor Hiromasa Goto. In this process, liquid crystal molecules were initially in a precise position. The addition of monomer molecules has caused the liquid crystals to twist into a helical suspension. This emphasizes “chirality” or dedication to the building, making us directed like a clock or opposite the clock. An electrical voltage was applied, which resulted in the detection of polymerization of monomers. The liquid crystal template was then removed, leaving the polymer ice in a helical state.
By breaking the mirror symmetry, the polymer has the ability to convert polarized light into circular polarization. Furan rings in polymer not only contribute to electrical conduct, but also help stabilize the helical structure. “The interaction of pi-stacking between the rings allows the polymer to be integrated into a systematic chiral system,” said Professor Goto. The resulting polymer was tested using circular dichroism absorption spectroscopy and was found to have strong visual acuity in visible wavelengths. Upcoming apps for this app may include cheaper and more energy efficient chargers.
Source Journal Reference: Hiromasa Goto. Reaction field induction self-amplification optical activity during polymerization in liquid crystal, Molecular Crystals and Liquid Crystals, 2022; 1 DOI: 10.1080/15421406.2022.2073421
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