Electro-optic Effect in Polydimethylsiloxane-Cellulose Nanocrystal Composite for Reconfigurable Lens

Electrically tunable adaptive lenses provide several advantages over traditional lens assemblies in terms of compactness, speed and efficiency. Such a lens is a broadband device with its performance independent of light polarization. Here we developed a process for making liquid lens with tunable focal distance on applying electrical input. Materials used to make the lens were polydimethylsiloxane and organ modified cellulose nanocrystal filler. The effect of filler concentration on the optical property and dielectric behavior of composites is analyzed. A novel fabrication process based on individual lens components allows customization of power based lens devices useful for desired applications.