Optical Optimization with Microstructure Evolution Inspired from Lepidopteran Scales

Abstract

Lepidopteran scales exhibit exquisite architectures that produce complex optical performance, such as structural colors for multiple survival strategies. However, how do these optical properties evolve to achieve such an excellent performance remains enigmatic because of the rarity of fossils and complexity of the gene regulatory network. Here, inspired by the primitive lepidopteran fossils, it is deduced that the morphology of these multilayered scales can be expressed by the basic trigonometric function sin(x) = t. A unified evolving model (UEM) is developed to reconstruct the evolutionary process from original multilayers to the current lepidopteran scale microstructures. The simulated optical response results show that factors such as the light absorption, warning coloration, and visual range intensity are optimized for survival by these insect individuals. The UEM provides a route to rationalizing other natural periodic microstructures. Furthermore, microstructure parameterization can facilitate the design of the nano‐optical materials. Corresponding results can help develop specific applications such as photothermal conversion, radiative cooling, and camouflaging.

Ultrawide Spectra Camouflage Coatings from Metallic Flake Powder

“…After billions of years of evolution based on survival of the fittest, creatures have evolved with different camouflage means for various predators, such as chameleons, 37 cephalopods, 38,39 and lepidopterans. 40,41 Specifically, lepidopterans achieve camouflage effects by relying on the intricate micronano structure of wing scales to regulate the spectra, including their color control and temperature regulation. This is an important inspiration for camouflage materials design.…”

“…After billions of years of evolution based on survival of the fittest, creatures have evolved with different camouflage means for various predators, such as chameleons, cephalopods, , and lepidopterans. , Specifically, lepidopterans achieve camouflage effects by relying on the intricate micronano structure of wing scales to regulate the spectra, including their color control and temperature regulation. This is an important inspiration for camouflage materials design. − In this paper, we prepared bioinspired carbon nanotubes adsorbed on porous anodic alumina/aluminum flake powder (CNTs@PAA/AFP) by a self-developed micropowder anodic oxidation (micro-PAO) method and physical absorption.…”

Achieving structural white inspired by quasiordered microstructures in Morpho theseus

“…In consideration of the potential of structural whiteness, comprehensive numerical studies have been performed to understand the relevant optical mechanisms [21][22][23] . The recent proposal of the unified evolving model based on trigonometric implicit functions has revealed the connection between different structures and greatly improved the simulation efficiency 24 . For disordered structures, it is challenging to simulate optical mechanisms, although it is crucial for cooling device design.…”

Achieve structural white inspired from quasi-ordered microstructures in Morpho theseus

“…Considering the potential advantages of structural whiteness, comprehensive numerical works have been delivered for understanding the mechanisms of periodic structures that help enhancing reflectivity and expanding bandwidth [21][22][23] . The recent proposal of the unified evolving model based on trigonometric implicit functions has revealed the connection between different structures and greatly improves the simulation efficiency 24 . For disordered structures, it is challenging to the simulation of optical mechanisms, although it is crucial for the cooling devices design.…”