Microlens array fabricated using electrohydrodynamic instability and surface properties

Abstract

We fabricated polarization-dependent and polarization-independent microlens arrays (MLA) through the electrohydrodynamic instability of the optically anisotropic organic layer. The anisotropic flow induced by the instability of the organic layer leads to making the lens profile on the patterned electrode. We can easily control the polarization dependence of the MLA by controlling the surface alignment properties, even with the optically anisotropic organic layer. This method is a straightforward, fast, and reliable process for MLA fabrication since it does not require cumbersome developing and molding processes. (C) 2011 Optical Society of America