Polymer/LC Phase Separation Assisted in Fabrication of Self-Assembled Optical Microlens Arrays

Abstract

Here we report on the development of the low-temperature self-assembly microlens arrays via liquid crystal/photopolymer blends phase separation method. In this method, liquid crystal/photopolymer blends phase separate well to form a pioneer structure for the subsequently photopolymerized mircolens arrays. The morphology of the microlens arrays has been observed by SEM, AFM and scanning white light interferometer. The obtained focal length and f-number are 95 μm and 7.6, respectively. The results obtained from our experiments show a comparable light-gathering capability and can be applied in optical systems.