RPI ID: 2010-072-401

Innovation Summary:
RPI researchers created a method for fabricating tunable nanoporous thin films on flexible polymer substrates, enabling the creation of lightweight, conformal, and optically functional surfaces. The process involves oblique angle deposition (OAD) of materials such as metal oxides onto temperature-sensitive polymers, resulting in nanostructured films with controllable porosity, refractive index, and thickness. These films can be engineered for specific optical, mechanical, or chemical properties, making them ideal for advanced photonic and sensing applications.

Challenges / Opportunities:
Creating high-quality nanostructured films on polymer substrates is challenging due to thermal sensitivity and mechanical flexibility. This invention overcomes these barriers by using a low-temperature, scalable deposition technique that maintains substrate integrity while achieving precise nanostructure control. It opens opportunities in flexible optics, wearable sensors, anti-reflective coatings, and biointerfaces.

Key Benefits / Advantages:
✔ Tunable porosity and refractive index for custom optical properties
✔ Compatible with flexible, temperature-sensitive substrates
✔ Scalable and low-cost manufacturing process
✔ Enables multifunctional surfaces for optics, sensing, and filtration

Applications:
• Flexible and wearable optical devices
• Anti-reflective and photonic coatings
• Biosensors and chemical detection platforms
• Lightweight optical components for aerospace and consumer electronics

Keywords:
#nanoporousfilms #flexibleoptics #obliqueangledeposition #nanomanufacturing #photonicmaterials

Intellectual Property:
US Issued Patent 9,732,427