Stimuli-Configuring Anisotropic Soft Architectures towards Dynamic Manipulable Photonics

Abstract

This review provides a comprehensive examination of stimuli-configuring anisotropic soft architectures, specifically, stimuli-responsive liquid crystal (LC) artificial micro- and nano-structures, highlighting their unique properties, recent advancements, and diverse applications toward dynamic manipulable photonics. It begins by introducing the fundamentals of LCs, including their classification, key properties, and theoretical modeling approaches. The paper delves into various stimuli—electric fields, light, temperature, and mechanical forces—that trigger changes in LC behavior, with a particular emphasis on photo-responsive systems. In-depth discussions cover electrically driven LC structures, exploring their applications in display technologies and beyond, for example, virtual/augmented reality, holography, and geometric phase optical elements such as lenses, beam shaping and beam steering devices. Light-driven LC structures are analyzed for their remote-control capabilities and roles in switchable optical elements and particle manipulation. The review also examines thermo-responsive and mechanically responsive LC systems, showcasing advanced structures that integrate multiple stimuli for enhanced functionality. Throughout the article, cutting-edge research and innovative applications are highlighted, demonstrating the significant potential of stimuli-responsive LC structures in fields such as optics, photonics, sensing, and information processing. This synthesis of current advancements emphasizes the versatility and adaptability of LCs in responding to various external inputs, paving the way for future technological innovations.