Single-Layered Cholesteric Liquid Crystal Polymer Network Film with Two Overlapped Patterns

Patterned cholesteric liquid crystal (CLC) polymer network (CLCN) films have been widely utilized in anticounterfeiting and decorative applications, owing to their selective Bragg reflection behavior. Overlapped CLCN patterns are particularly attractive for these applications due to their enhanced visual complexity and security features. In this study, we prepared an acrylate-based room-temperature CLC mixture. Based on thermochromism, oxygen inhibition, and molecular diffusion, we successfully fabricated CLCN films with dual reflection bands. Using photomasks, we further prepared single-layered CLCN films featuring two overlapped patterns. When the patterns are one-dimensional gratings, distinct patterns are observed upon changing the viewing angle, demonstrating their potential for dynamic visual effects. This approach not only simplifies the preparation process of CLCN films with composite structural colors, but also provides a pathway for developing advanced decorative and anticounterfeiting materials with enhanced functionality.