Direct laser writing of electrically switchable optical nanostructures

Conducting polymers such as PEDOT:PSS exhibit distinctive electronic and polymeric attributes. When subjected to CMOS-compatible voltages (-3 V and +2 V), PEDOT:PSS transitions between insulating and metallic states via an intrinsic electrochemical redox reaction. Consequently, this conducting polymer is suited perfectly for AR/VR applications, advanced display technologies, dynamic sensors, and integration with printed optics. When nanostructured, PEDOT:PSS can exhibit switchable plasmonic resonances in the infrared spectral range. The latter application requires a robust foundation in fabrication and the ability to combine 3D printed optics with switchable materials to open the route to dynamic miniaturized optics. We present an alternative fabrication method based on the photon-induced solubility modulation that combines conventional, static photopolymer structures (IP-S) with the dynamic behavior of PEDOT:PSS. Additionally, we demonstrate that the electrical, optical, and dynamic material properties remain even after structuring based on direct laser writing, present the resolution limit at 400nm structure width, and investigate the switching speed and sample longevity.