Quadri-Dimensional Anti-counterfeiting Flexible Label Programmed by a Photoresponsive Liquid Crystal Polymer Film

Abstract

Creating flexible materials with multi-dimensional security holds great promise for anti-counterfeiting labels in food, currency, and pharmaceuticals, but it is proven extremely challenging. Herein, we propose a photoresponsive liquid crystal polymer (LCP) film by incorporating polymerizable photoswitch into commercial LCP with ultraviolet (UV) light exposure. Reversible photochromism can be observed between light- and dark-red under UV and visible light irradiation alternatively, accompanying by variation of fluorescence intensity. In addition, a series of photonic microstructures are written on the flexible LCP film by taking advantage of the predefined patterned light. A quadri-dimensional anti-counterfeiting flexible label, featuring photochromism, fluorescence, embedded microstructures, and optical diffraction is constructed with the assistance of photoresponsive LCP film. This strategy represents a beneficial step toward flexible anti-counterfeiting materials, which enhances the secure level for practical product engineering applications.