Flexible Optically Rewritable E-Paper Based on Nanotechnology
https://doi.org/10.18384/2949-5067-2025-4-77-87
Abstract
Aim. Development of low-cost flexible Optically Rewritable E-paper using nanotechnology to address the challenge of aligning liquid crystals on plastic substrates.
Methodology. The approach is based on nanosized azo-dye photoaligning layers, which enable high-quality liquid crystal alignment on flexible plastics without the high-temperature processes required by conventional methods.
Results. The fabricated E-paper demonstrates fast response (<2 s), low writing energy (<1 J/cm2), and over 1000 rewrite cycles. The device is mechanically robust, complex driving electronics is not needed.
Research implications. This technology enables a mass production of low-cost, durable flexible displays for applications like price tags, advertising and smart cards, positioning optically rewritable E-paper as a strong competitor in the E-paper market.
Keywords
azo dye,
flexible substrates,
nematic liquid crystal,
optically rewritable electronic paper,
photoalignment
Supporting agencies: This work was supported by the grant from the Federal State University of Education in 2025, awarded to the winning research project in the competitive grant program
About the Authors
V. G. Chigrinov
Federal State University of Education; Peoples' Friendship University of Russia named after Patrice Lumumba; Nanjing Jingcui Optical Technology Co., Ltd.; Yaroslav-the-Wise Novgorod State University
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Vladimir G. Chigrinov, Dr. Sci. (Phys.-Math.), Prof., Senior Researcher, Leading Scientist
Laboratory of Theoretical and Applied Nanotechnology; Engineering Academy; Department of Mechanics and Control Processes
Moscow; China; Nanjing; Novgorod
A. D. Kurilov
Federal State University of Education
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Aleksandr D. Kurilov, Cand. Sci., (Phys.-Math.), Laboratory Head
Laboratory of Theoretical and Applied Nanotechnology
Moscow
A. A. Kudreyko
Ufa University of Science and Technology
Russian Federation
Russian Federation
Aleksey A. Kudreyko, Dr. Sci. (Phys.-Math.), Prof.
Department of General Physics
Ufa
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