The scattering strength of a random material depends on the geometry and spatial distribution of its components as well as on their refractive index. Therefore, obtaining a strong scattering response using low refractive index materials like biopolymers can be challenging. Despite this limitation, when the internal topology of a material is effectively optimized, it is possible to obtain an exceptionally high scattering strength. In this talk, a scalable and versatile approach for light management in cellulose nanofibers membranes is discussed [1]. By inducing appropriate porosity and tuning the size distribution of the CNF in the membranes, it is possible to modify their resulting nanostructure and produce membranes with completely different optical appearance: from thick, highly transparent membranes to bright white ones, only a few microns thick. By characterizing the optical performance of the fabricated membranes, we observe that light transport in porous cellulose nanofibers membranes undergoes anomalous diffusion, allowing to obtain perfect opacity, within only a few microns in thickness.<br/><br/>

Light management with cellulose nanofibers

2019 Spring National Meeting

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