Photonic bandgaps of conformally coated structures

Polymeric molds of the layer-by-layer photonic crystal can be economically synthesized with a microtransfer molding technique. The refractive indices of these molds are low, preventing formation of a photonic bandgap. We find that such molds can be conformally coated with higher-index material. Photonic band calculations find structures in which conformally coated layer-by-layer molds have complete bandgaps for both titania and silicon coatings. Large stop bands exist in the 001 stacking direction. Feasibility of experimental conformal coating of the molds has been demonstrated with a titania-coated polyurethane mold, which shows optical features in agreement with simulations of reflection and transmission.