Authors:	M. Xiao, Z. Hu, Z. Wang, Y. Li, A. Diaz Tormo , N. Le Thomas, B. Wang, N.C. Gianneschi, M. D. Shawley, A. Dhinojwala
Title:	Bioinspired Bright noniridescent photonic melanin supraballs
Format:	International Journal
Publication date:	9/2017
Journal/Conference/Book:	Science Advances
Editor/Publisher:	American Association for the Advancement of Science,
Volume(Issue):	3(9)
DOI:	10.1126/sciadv.1701151
Citations:	190 (Dimensions.ai - last update: 21/4/2024) 50 (OpenCitations - last update: 19/4/2024) Look up on Google Scholar
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Abstract

Structural colors enable the creation of a spectrum of nonfading colors without pigments, potentially replacing toxic metal oxides and conjugated organic pigments. However, significant challenges remain to achieve the contrast needed for a complete gamut of colors and a scalable process for industrial application. We demonstrate a feasible solution for producing structural colors inspired by bird feathers. We have designed core-shell nanoparticles using high-refractive index (RI) (~1.74) melanin cores and low-RI (~1.45) silica shells. The design of these nanoparticles was guided by finite-difference time-domain simulations. These nanoparticles were self-assembled using a one-pot reverse emulsion process, which resulted in bright and noniridescent supraballs. With the combination of only two ingredients, synthetic melanin and silica, we can generate a full spectrum of colors. These supraballs could be directly added to paints, plastics, and coatings and also used as ultraviolet-resistant inks or cosmetics.