Inspired by the optimised performances of the random networks found in <i>Cyphochilus</i> beetles, here we developed highly scattering materials using only cellulose. Extremely short scattering mean free path about 1.2 μm can be achieved in the fabricated films by optimizing the dimension of rod-shaped cellulose nanoparticles (CNPs) as cellulose building blocks and adjusting porosity via modifying the filtration and freeze-drying conditions. Our developed materials reproduce with high fidelity the 3D disordered nanostructures network of the white beetles (Figure 1). By adjusting the dimension and filling fraction of the CNPs, a typical biomimetic 9 μm cellulose based film exhibits a reflectance of 75-82% in the entire of visible range. Additionally, our developed CNPs can be directly used as highly scattering elements as colour enhancers. The biorenewable and biocompatible characters of the system combined with its good mechanical properties, allow the use of our highly scattering material for applications in paints, LEDs and solar cell devices, but also in food and pharmaceutical with minimal impact on the environment and human health.

Cellulose building blocks design for scattering engineering

Macromolecular Chemistry: The Second Century

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ACS Spring 2020 National Meeting & Expo

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.