US20260243691
2026-08-20
Physics
G01N21/78
This patent application describes a new class of stable organic molecules, referred to as nonacene-like molecules, which exhibit unique optical properties and can be used in various devices and systems. These molecules are particularly noted for their adaptability in visible and near-infrared optical and fluorescent applications. The invention includes methods for manufacturing these molecules and integrating them into films and devices. A specific application highlighted is an actuator-type deception and signaling device that utilizes these molecules and their protonated versions.
The invention pertains to organic molecules with exceptional optical properties, stability, and manufacturing ease. These molecules are incorporated into films, systems, and devices that can adaptively change color and appearance, making them suitable for applications such as displays, signaling, camouflage, anti-counterfeiting, and biomedical imaging. The invention aims to address the limitations of existing technologies by providing simpler, multifunctional platforms capable of dynamic spectroscopic changes.
Current technologies for adaptive color and appearance changes face challenges such as complex material preparation, expensive fabrication, and limited functionality across multiple spectral bands. The invention seeks to overcome these issues by developing systems with tunable spectroscopic and fluorescent properties across the UV, visible, and near-infrared regions. The nonacene-like molecules offer a promising solution for tandem deception/camouflage and signaling applications, which have been difficult to achieve with existing materials.
The nonacene-like molecule features a molecular core of nine ortho-annulated benzene rings, with additional aromatic rings and heteroatoms for stabilization and functionalization. These molecules can be used in films that change color and appearance through layers of optically transparent elastomers and ion-conducting materials. The films are designed to form reconfigurable structures that alter their properties based on the state of elastic deformation, enhancing their adaptability for various applications.
Various embodiments of the invention include films and systems with different configurations of nonacene-like molecules, such as TBN and PTBN, arranged in patterns to achieve distinct optical effects. The systems can be electrically induced to change color and appearance, making them versatile for applications in dynamic displays and signaling devices. The invention also explores the use of sulfonated pentablock copolymer as an ion-conducting elastomer, enhancing the functionality and durability of the systems.