Fabricating 3A optical films via transfer printing from a nickel nanocone array template†

Abstract

Nanostructured surfaces are fundamental for the development of various functional films. Nanoimprint technology enables the transfer of patterns from templates with micro–nano structures onto various substrates to achieve advanced functionalities. However, developing practical large-area periodic templates and achieving high-performance thin layers through imprinting have been challenging. This study presents a method for creating nickel nanocone arrays (NCAs) via electrodeposition as nanoimprint templates. By employing the nanostructured surfaces as templates to transfer-print optical resins, optical films with anti-glare (AG) functionality were fabricated. Additionally, anti-fingerprint (AF) resin with a specific thickness is coated on the surface of the optical films to achieve both anti-reflective (AR) and AF functionalities. The 3A optical films demonstrate exceptional properties, characterized by high hydrophobicity, low reflectivity, high transmittance, and desirable haze. This showcases the promising application potential of this innovative technology in the field of 3A optical films as well as in photovoltaic panel applications.