The Polymer Society of Korea

Hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC) self-assembles into cholesteric mesophases, displaying thermoresponsive structural colors in aqueous environments. In this study, we incorporate polyethylene glycol-functionalized additives to achieve precise tunability of both thermal and light-responsive behaviors via tailored intermolecular interactions. We also demonstrate the direct ink writing of these HPC composite inks. By employing a kinetic trapping approach to establish dual physical and chemical cross-links, we show robust, dynamically colored architectures. This strategy facilitates the fabrication of graphics and optical devices, expanding their potential in anti-counterfeiting and portable sensing technologies.