Polymer films mimic nature’s iridescence

14-Mar-2013 - Japan

Triple-layer photonic polymer films have been prepared that show the same type of iridescent optical behaviour that is seen in the bodies of some insects and birds.

The scientists behind the work mimicked the phenomenon by preparing triple-layered films that contain different liquid crystal ordering within each layer, giving a turquoise blue structural colour. The colour of the films can be fine-tuned by electrochemical redox processes.

Original publication

H Goto, RSC Advances, 2013

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