Photochromic materials + Silicon?

In summary, the conversation discusses the possibility of using photochromic switching effects with photonic structures on silicon. However, the issue is that silicon is not transparent for the same wavelengths as photochromic materials. The speaker is looking for any applications where photochromic materials have been successfully used with silicon, and if there are any solutions to overcome the spectrum problem. A literature search has yielded no results so far. Additionally, the speaker mentions that most photochromic materials may be too slow to respond for use in photonic applications, but notes that silicon is transparent at wavelengths greater than 1.1 um, making it ideal for many photonic applications.
  • #1
Tsunami
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I was wondering whether it is possible to use photochromatic switching effects, for photonic structures on silicon.

The problem might be that silicon is not transparent for the same wavelengths as photochromic materials. So basically, I was wondering if somebody knew about applications where photochromic materials are used together with silicon, and if there are certain adjustments to circumvene the spectrum problem. A search in the literature has given me nothing so far.
 
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  • #2
I would think most photochromic materials would be too slow to respond to a light input to make them useful in photonic applications. As to silicon; it is transparent at wavelengths grater than 1.1 um which would make it ideal for many photonic applications.

Regards
 
  • #3


It is certainly possible to combine photochromic materials with silicon in photonic structures. In fact, there have been studies and developments in this area for potential applications in sensors, displays, and other optoelectronic devices. One challenge is indeed the transparency of silicon for certain wavelengths, but this can be overcome by using thin film layers of photochromic materials on top of silicon, or by incorporating the photochromic materials into the silicon structure itself. There are also techniques such as selective doping or surface modification that can be used to adjust the spectral properties of silicon to better match those of the photochromic materials. While there may not be a lot of published literature on this specific combination, there are ongoing research efforts and potential applications for photochromic materials and silicon together.
 

1. What are photochromic materials?

Photochromic materials are substances that change color when exposed to light. They are able to absorb and release light energy, causing a reversible change in their molecular structure and resulting in a color change.

2. How are photochromic materials made?

Photochromic materials are typically made by incorporating special molecules, known as photochromic dyes, into a matrix material such as silicone. These dyes have the ability to undergo a chemical reaction when exposed to certain wavelengths of light, causing a color change.

3. What are the applications of photochromic materials?

Photochromic materials have a wide range of applications, including in eyeglasses, car windows, protective lenses, and even clothing. They are also used in sensors and detectors, as well as in the production of smart windows that can regulate the amount of light and heat entering a building.

4. How does silicon affect photochromic materials?

Silicon is often used as the matrix material for photochromic materials because of its unique properties. It is transparent, durable, and resistant to UV radiation. It also allows for the incorporation of photochromic dyes, making it an ideal material for the production of photochromic devices.

5. Are there any drawbacks to using photochromic materials + silicon?

One potential drawback of using photochromic materials + silicon is that the color change may not be as dramatic or fast as desired. This can be addressed by optimizing the concentration of the photochromic dye and the matrix material. Additionally, overexposure to UV radiation can cause the photochromic material to lose its ability to change color over time.

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