(2kj) Dynamic, Remote-Controllable Electroactive Hydrogel Waveguide Architectures

Electroactive light-guiding structures are generated inside of a hydrogel within seconds using self-trapped visible beams from light-emitting diodes (LEDs) elicited when photo-induced refractive index changes counteract the natural divergence of light. Due to irreversible refractive index changes experienced by photoinduced chemical reactions, these self-trapped beams permanently inscribe waveguides along their paths. The waveguides’ orientation, motion and ensuing direction of their light output can be precisely and remotely controlled through external electrical fields. By applying and varying external electric fields, we can then dynamically control the bending, angular orientation and rotation (up to 360^o) of these pliant light-guiding structures. This allows precise, remote control of the waveguided light output.