Analysis of quasi-periodic pore-network structure of centric marine diatom frustules

Abstract

Diatoms are a common type of phytoplankton characterized by their silica exoskeleton known as a frustule. The diatom frustule is composed of two valves and a series of connecting girdle bands. Each diatom species has a unique frustule shape and valves in particular species display an intricate pattern of pores resembling a photonic crystal structure. We used several numerical techniques to analyze the periodic and quasi-periodic valve pore-network structure in diatoms of the Coscinodiscophyceae order. We quantitatively identify defect locations and pore spacing in the valve and use this information to better understand the optical and biological properties of the diatom.

Diatom frustules as a biomaterial: effects of chemical treatment on organic material removal and mechanical properties in cleaned frustules from two Coscinodiscus species

“…nano-to micrometer scaled sieves [5] or drug carriers [6] , [7] as well as vectors for drug delivery [8] , protein adsorbents [9] and as photocatalysts [10] . Diatom frustules also show particular optical properties [11] , [12] , [13] , [14] , [15] , [16] , [17] making them interesting for several optical applications [18] . Furthermore, the biosilica can also be used as a powder to reinforce other composites [19] .…”