Nanostructure-free crescent-shaped microparticles as full-color reflective pigments

Yi Yang, Jong Bin Kim, Seong Kyeong Nam, Mengmeng Zhang, Jiangping Xu, Jintao Zhu () and Shin-Hyun Kim ()
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Yi Yang: Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)
Jong Bin Kim: Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)
Seong Kyeong Nam: Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)
Mengmeng Zhang: Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST)
Jiangping Xu: Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST)
Jintao Zhu: Huazhong University of Science and Technology (HUST)
Shin-Hyun Kim: Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)

Nature Communications, 2023, vol. 14, issue 1, 1-9

Abstract: Abstract Structural colors provide a promising visualization with high color saturation, iridescent characteristics, and fade resistance. However, pragmatic uses are frequently impeded by complex manufacturing processes for sophisticated nanostructures. Here, we report a facile emulsion-templating strategy to produce crescent-shaped microparticles as structural color pigments. The micro-crescents exhibit brilliant colors under directional light originating from total internal reflections and optical interferences in the absence of periodic nanostructures while being transparent under ambient light. The colors are finely tunable by adjusting the size of the micro-crescents, which can be further mixed to enrich the variety. Importantly, the pre-defined convex surface secures high stability of colors and enables structural coloration on target surfaces through direct deposition as inks. We anticipate this class of nanostructure-free structural colorants is pragmatic as invisible inks in particular for anti-counterfeiting patches and color cosmetics with distinctive impressions due to low-cost, scalable manufacturing, unique optical properties, and versatility.

Date: 2023
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-36482-4

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