Stimuli-responsive photonic crystals have been actively developed for environmental sensors and switchable displays. In one-dimensional photonic materials (Bragg stacks), control over domain spacing and relative refractive indices is necessary to achieve dynamic structural color. Layer-by-layer (LbL) electrostatic assembly of polyelectrolyte and nanoparticles provides a simple method to prepare responsive Bragg stacks but requires components with alternating charge.To overcome this limitation, we developed a new bio-inspired layer-by-layer assembly method to prepare composite multilayers from metal oxide nanoparticles and catechol-functionalized polymers. The catechol functional group, found in the adhesive proteins of mussels, has the unique ability to self-crosslink and form strong coordination bonds to metal oxide surfaces. Our facile method enables control over the thickness and refractive indices of each layer within composite films. We envision that this platform will improve the stability of the resulting Bragg stacks and increase the scope of components which can be incorporated into these constructs. 

Bio-inspired nanocomposites from catechol-based layer-by-layer assembly

248th National Meeting (2014)

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