Electric Field-Induced Complex Network Patterns in Polymer Ionic Liquid Blends

Designing multifunctional soft materials through pattern formation to provide unique functionalities in synthetic soft materials has been a grand challenge for scientists and engineers. Using modelling and simulation, we have developed a non-invasive technique that enables the formation of complex patterns in polymer ionic liquid (PIL) blends by harnessing electric fields. Specifically, when our incompatible PIL blend is exposed to a transverse electric field the phase-separated domain align in an orderly manner to create complex patterns. Our computational model is based on reaction-diffusion phenomena and utilises Poisson-Boltzmann-Nernst-Planck equations that captures the long-range interactions of ionic liquids. Through our simulations we demonstrate the formation of intricately patterned structures, such as capillary network structures, collections of repetitive designs reminiscent of mandala art, and bilaterally symmetrical patterns, to name a few. These patterns can be preserved by quenching the system, however, we observe that they deform into circular structures after removal of the electric field. Furthermore, we characterize these patterns via structure factor and quantify their domain growth and ordering. Overall, our non-invasive methodology for creating complex morphologies is resilient and adaptable to various geometries and therefore, marks a significant advancement in developing detailed intricate structures at microscopic scales, driving progress in microscale fabrications through non-contact mechanisms.