Scalable and Sensitive Humidity-Responsive Polymer Photonic Crystal Films for Anticounterfeiting Application

In this study, we fabricate a new kind of ultrasensitive humidity-responsive photonic crystal (HPC) films based on emulsion polymerization and the open mill and bending-induced ordering technique (OM-BIOT) method, which is simple and scalable. The HPC film senses relative humidity (RH) from 9 to 98% for the polymer matrix swells up in high RH and shrinks in low RH, leading to a large reflectance shift (81 nm) and distinct color change. Based on the double-peak reflective spectra of the HPC film, we confirm the gradient swelling hypothesis and find that the thickness is another important factor for controlling the sensitivity and response rate of the HPC film. Except for static humidity, the HPC film can also respond to the dynamic humid flow of blowing and polar solvents, which broadens its application potential. This kind of HPC film shows a vivid structural color, and the humidityresponsive behavior is quick, distinct, energy-free, and reversible, having a great prospect for anticounterfeiting application.

Automated summary

In this study, a new kind of ultrasensitive humidity-responsive photonic crystal film was fabricated through emulsion polymerization and the open mill and bending-induced ordering technique. The film can sense relative humidity, undergoes swelling in high humidity and shrinking in low humidity, resulting in a distinct color change. The film's sensitivity and response rate are influenced by its thickness. It also responds to dynamic humidity flow, expanding its potential applications.