Color from hierarchy: Diverse optical properties of micron-sized spherical colloidal assemblies
Abstract
Controlling the internal structure over multiple length scales can produce materials with superior properties. This hierarchical design is ubiquitous in nature where materials have evolved to show maximum functionality from a limited choice of available building blocks. Mimicking the emergence of functionality from simple building blocks is a key challenge for man-made materials. Here, we show how a simple confined self-assembly of colloidal particles leads to a complex geometry that displays a surprising variety of optical effects. These effects are a result of the intricate interaction of light with the structural features at different length scales, and the geometry of the self-assembled structure. The results underline the importance of controlling assembly processes over multiple length scales to tailor properties and maximize performance.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Pub Defense Publication
- Publication Date
- Aug 19, 2015
- Source ID
- 10.1073/pnas.1506272112
Entities
People
- David A Weitz
- Grant T. England
- Ian B. Burgess
- Joanna Aizenberg
- Katherine R Phillips
- Mathias Kolle
- Natalie Koay
- Nicolas Vogel
- Stefanie Utech
- Tanya Shirman
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- Division of Materials Research
- Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg
- Harvard University
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- University of Toronto