Structural colours – materials that employ photonic nanostructures to interact with light with a brilliantly iridescent result – have captured the imaginations of researchers in recent years. However, the fragility of these nanostructures poses an ongoing challenge in their development.
The structural colours have applications in optical devices and high-tech security in hydrogel form, but they are highly sensitive to damage.
As a potential solution to this problem, researchers led by Fanfan Fu at Southeast University in Nanjing, China, have strengthened the material with self-healing hydrogel, inspired by biological wound-repair observed in the animal world.
The new composite hydrogel has been shown to successfully increase the longevity and survivability of the material.
Structural colours themselves are also inspired by the natural world. Animals use their structural colours for camouflage, communication and mating.
The prospect of self-healing hydrogels could be crucial for further research, as well as practical applications, the researchers say.
Originally published by Cosmos as Photonic nanostructure, heal thyself
Amy Middleton
Amy Middleton is a Melbourne-based journalist.
Read science facts, not fiction...
There’s never been a more important time to explain the facts, cherish evidence-based knowledge and to showcase the latest scientific, technological and engineering breakthroughs. Cosmos is published by The Royal Institution of Australia, a charity dedicated to connecting people with the world of science. Financial contributions, however big or small, help us provide access to trusted science information at a time when the world needs it most. Please support us by making a donation or purchasing a subscription today.