Thermo‐Derived Cholesteric Liquid Crystal Elastomer Pattern with Composite Structural Colors

ABSTRACT Cholesteric liquid crystal elastomer (CLCE) films featuring colorful patterns have garnered significant attention for decorative and anti‐counterfeiting applications. By transitioning from monochromatic to composite color schemes, these patterns can be made more visually striking. Herein, the CLCE films with different monochromatically structured colors were prepared using a thermochromic liquid crystal oligomer by changing the photopolymerization temperature. Based on oxygen inhibition and thermochroism, the CLCE films with dual reflection bands were prepared using the thermochromic oligomer by a single coating step followed by a two‐step photopolymerization process. The bottom and top sections of the oligomer film were cured at different polymerization steps. Subsequently, a patterned composite film combining CLCE with thermoplastic polyurethane, featuring composite structural colors, and an elastic mirror was prepared, demonstrating potential for decorative applications.