Asymmetric angular dependence for multicolor display based on plasmonic inclined-nanopillar array

Abstract

Asymmetric multicolor displays have unique and fascinating applications in the field of artificial color engineering. However, the realization of such multicolor displays still faces challenges, due to limitations associated with nanofabrication techniques. In this work, asymmetric photonic structures were realized through inclined 2D aluminum nanopillar arrays, which demonstrate asymmetric angle-dependence as multicolor displays. It was numerically and experimentally demonstrated that the distinctive symmetry breaking leads to the plasmonic coupling effect with angle-dependence and reflection differences with the opposite observing angle. Based on this concept, several color printings were designed as prototypes, which prove the utility of the controlled asymmetric color display with varied observing angles. Our results demonstrate a simple and efficient platform for asymmetric plasmonic nanostructures, which paves the way for further study and designation in artificial color engineering.