Mechanochromic 3D Soft Photonic Crystals Enabled Anticounterfeiting and Encryption Information Storage

Abstract

Inspired by the color‐changing abilities of natural organisms, this research focuses on the design and fabrication of mechanochromic liquid crystal photonic crystal thin films with periodic self‐assembly structures. Benefiting from its unique 3D self‐assembled structure with a body‐centered cubic lattice, BP I film exhibits excellent mechanical properties, characterized by superior elasticity and toughness due to the presence of rigid and flexible microdomains and suitable dislocation line volumes. As the strain increases, the structural color of the BP I film demonstrates a repeatable and rapid shift from red to blue, covering the entire visible light spectrum with high reflectivity. The incorporation of fluorescent molecules further enhances the mechanical properties and endowing the film with circularly polarized luminescence under UV light irradiation. Utilizing different fluorescent dyes as inks, arbitrary patterned writing can be performed on the BPI film, enabling specific information hiding and encryption. The prepared label exhibits excellent environmental stability, presenting promising applications in information storage, anti‐counterfeiting, and flexible 3D displays. The study may contribute to a deeper understanding of the relationship between microstructure, mechanical deformation, and optical properties, potentially advancing the development of innovative responsive materials and multifunctional devices.