Switchable diffractive optics using patterned PEDOT:PSS based electrochromic thin-films

• Fabricated switchable diffractive optical elements from patterned electrochromic material.
• Used thin-films of PEDOT:PSS to make diffraction gratings and Fresnel zone plates of various sizes.
• Measured diffraction efficiency and calculated theoretical maximum efficiency.

We demonstrate switchable, thin film diffractive optical gratings and Fresnel zone plate lenses fabricated using a micro-patterned electrochromic polymer and gel electrolyte. Electrochemically switching the conductive polymer PEDOT:PSS causes the patterned layer to change between a low-absorption to high absorption state, acting as an amplitude diffractive optical element. The switchable lens and gratings were fabricated using a lithographically patterned electrochromic polymer, a gel electrolyte, and an ITO-coated glass substrate. Within an applied voltage of −1 V to 1 V, the diffraction efficiency of the switchable lens can be varied 4.1-fold between the ‘on’ and ‘off’ states. Due to their low actuation voltage and biocompatibility, electrochemically actuated diffractive optics have potential applications in low power and implantable biomedical devices.

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