Laser-driven plasmonic gratings for hiding multiple images

Hiding several images in a single printing, which appear selectively at different angles of observation, is of great interest for applications in security, data storage or design. Here, we propose an easy-to-implement ink-free laser-based technique to print nanostructured patterns that encode differ...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Materials horizons 2019-06, Vol.6 (5), p.978-983
Main Authors: Sharma, N, Vangheluwe, M, Vocanson, F, Cazier, A, Bugnet, M, Reynaud, S, Vermeulin, A, Destouches, N
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Damage prevention
Data storage
Glass substrates
Gratings (spectra)
High temperature
Laser applications
Lasers
Light diffraction
Selectivity
Titanium dioxide
Visual effects
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Summary:Hiding several images in a single printing, which appear selectively at different angles of observation, is of great interest for applications in security, data storage or design. Here, we propose an easy-to-implement ink-free laser-based technique to print nanostructured patterns that encode different grey-level images revealed to the eye at specific observation angles. The angular selectivity is provided by diffraction gratings whose orientation can be continuously controlled at the micrometer scale through self-organization mechanisms triggered by laser light. A diffraction yield allowing easy observation with the naked eye is demonstrated, thanks to the use of a thin TiO 2 :Ag film that also prevents damage to the substrates. The technology based on laser scanning is demonstrated on transparent and flexible substrates that do not sustain high temperature. This ink-free marking technology is flexible, suited to large surfaces, rapid, and provides unique visual effects on any kind of transparent substrate. Encoding diffractive images using smart laser printing for applications in security, design and data storage.
ISSN:2051-6347
2051-6355
DOI:10.1039/c9mh00017h