Colorful patterns prepared using alicyclic epoxy-based cholesteric liquid crystal inks for decoration

Cholesteric liquid crystal polymer network (CLCN) films have attracted much attention for decoration and displays. Herein, an alicyclic epoxy liquid crystal exhibiting an enantiotropic nematic phase was synthesised. CLCN films with a structural colour were prepared using the mixtures of this epoxy liquid crystal and a chiral dopant. These CLCN films showed high adhesion on the surfaces of poly(ethylene terephthalate), glass and stainless steel. Based on the thermochromic property of the CLC mixtures, colour patterns were prepared on their surfaces through screen printing. Moreover, a colourful pattern was prepared using a left- and a right-handed CLC mixture through inkjet printing. These patterns are potentially applied for decoration and anti-counterfeiting.