Color-Shifting Liquid Could Replace LCDs

UC-Riverside researchers say they've come up with a potential cheap replacement for LCD screens by mixing iron oxide, polymer particles and water into a liquid that changes color when exposed to a magnetic field. By combining forces of magnetic attraction and electrostatic repulsion, scientists can change back and forth between selected colors, which are set by varying the wavelength between particles. Says chemist Yadong Yin:

We see applications in various areas, including sensors, optical switches and flexible color displays...For example, the system can be used to make extra-large displays or posters to replace expensive LCD monitors. And, because the color is based on reflection, it is better for outdoor applications than current LCD displays that perform poorly in direct sunlight.

Chameleon liquid could outshine LCDs [NewScientist]