Photosensitive nanofibers for data recording and erasing

Photosensitive nanofibers have been utilized in various applications such as everyday apparels, protective clothing, medical and sports wearables. Polyurethane (PU) electrospun nanofiber mats (ENMs) are considered as one of the strong, stretchable, breathable, hydrophobic and durable textile substrates having good coloration properties. The photosensitive spiropyran dye[1 '-3 '-dihydro-8-methoxy-1 ',3 ',3 '-trimethyl-6-nitrospiro2H-1-benzopyran-2,2 '-(2H)-Indole] (Ind) was successfully incorporated into PU and polystyrene (PS) nanofibers via electrospinning. The resultant ENMs were measured upon alternate irradiation with ultraviolet at wavelength of 365 nm for coloration and with visible light at (40 degrees C) for decoloration on a designed photomask of quick-response code at the minimum area (1 x 1 cm(2)) with multiple photo-switching. SEM images revealed smooth morphology of the Ind-PS ENM and Ind-PU ENM with a slight increase in fiber diameter. The results revealed that the Ind-PS ENM and Ind-PU ENM can potentially be considered for data recording/erasing or where such type of ENMs can be utilized. [GRAPHICS] .