Spectral Measurements of Thin Films

With the tris dialyzed samples we recorded spectral data to show that the films being spun were truly 'thin film' and we demonstrated the ability of the thin films to change colour upon breathing by recording video and spectral data when breathed upon under the microscope.

Single Layer Spectra

Contour plot of reflectance (height) against wavelength along the x-axis and time along the y-axis at the point where breathing was applied

Spectral data slices, they have been displaced in order to better illustrate the changes in profile with time with black indicating before breathing and red after

Contour plot of reflectance (height) against wavelength along the x-axis and time along the y-axis for the entire capture duration showing the film reverts back to its original colouration

Looking at this we can see that by breathing we have been able to shift the colour of the film from blue to yellow. The presence of one dominant peak is an indication of the thickness of the film as we are only seeing one constructive interference determined by the dominant peak.

Double Layer Spectra

Contour plot of reflectance (height) against wavelength along the x-axis and time along the y-axis at the point where breathing was applied

Spectral data slices, they have been displaced in order to better illustrate the changes in profile with time with black indicating before breathing and red after

Contour plot of reflectance (height) against wavelength along the x-axis and time along the y-axis for the entire capture duration showing the film reverts back to its original colouration

Triple Layer Spectra

PDMS Control

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