Ultra-low-voltage electrowetting
File(s)
Author(s)
Type
Thesis
Abstract
Electrovariable optical components based on liquid/liquid interfaces encompass microfluidic lenses and mirrors, fiber-optic switches, and display elements. These devices function on the basis of the electrowetting effect, where a liquid interface is deformed by an applied electric field. Existing electrovariable lenses use electrowetting on dielectrics; however, because of voltage losses across the dielectric layer typically a voltage variation of 60 V is required to achieve a full focal range. To date the lowest recorded voltage for shape deformation in display elements is 25 V, which is not ideal for portable devices. Herein we investigate the properties of an alternative system, based on the interface between two immiscible electrolytic solutions (ITIES). This system shows promise, reducing the voltage requirement for a substantial electrowetting response by 2 orders of magnitude. Presented are the first experimental demonstration of ITIES-based ultra-low-voltage electrowetting and a preliminary study of its dynamics.
Version
Open Access
Date Issued
2010-08
Date Awarded
2013-03
Citation
The Journal of Physical Chemistry Part C: Nanomaterials and Interfaces, 2010, 114 (35), pp.14885-14890
Start Page
14885
End Page
14890
Journal / Book Title
The Journal of Physical Chemistry Part C: Nanomaterials and Interfaces
Volume
114
Issue
35
Copyright Statement
Attribution NoDerivatives 4.0 International Licence (CC BY-ND)
Advisor
Kucernak, Anthony
Publisher Department
Chemistry
Publisher Institution
Imperial College London
Qualification Level
Doctoral
Qualification Name
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Publication Status
Published