Optical Biomimetics

Optical biomimetics, the study of natural systems to inspire novel solutions to problems in optical technologies, has attracted growing interest. Optical biomimetics reviews key research in this area, focusing on the techniques and approaches used to characterise and mimic naturally occurring optical effects.

Beginning with an overview of natural photonic structures, Optical biomimetics goes on to discuss optical applications of biomolecules, such as retinylidene and bacteriorhodopsin, polarisation effects in natural photonic structures and their applications, and biomimetic nanostructures for anti-reflection (AR) devices. Control of iridescence in natural photonic structures is explored through the case of butterfly scales, alongside a consideration of nanostructure fabrication using natural synthesis. The investigation into silk optical materials is followed by a final discussion of the control of florescence in natural photonic structures.

With its distinguished editor and international team of expert contributors, Optical biomimetics is a valuable guide for scientists and engineers in both academia and industry who are already studying biomimetics, and a fascinating introduction for those who wish to move into this interesting new field.

• Reviews key research in optical biomimetics, focusing on the techniques and approaches used to characterise and mimic naturally-occurring optical effects
• Discusses optical applications of biomolecules, such as retinylidene and bacteriorhodopsin
• Explores the control of iridescence in natural photonic structures through the case of butterfly scales

Contenu

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Woodhead Publishing Series in Electronic and Optical Materials

introduction

Chapter 1: Natural photonic structures: an overview

Abstract:

1.1 Introduction

1.2 Photonic structures found in nature

1.3 Examples of optical biomimetic devices

1.4 Biomimetic approaches to fabrication of optical devices

1.5 Conclusion

1.6 Acknowledgements

Chapter 2: Optical applications of biomolecules

Abstract:

2.1 Introduction: biomimetics and biotechnology

2.2 Retinylidene proteins for optical devices

2.3 Applications of bacteriorhodopsin

2.4 Enhancing bacteriorhodopsin for device applications

2.5 Conclusions and future trends

2.6 Acknowledgements

Chapter 3: Polarisation effects in natural photonic structures and their applications

Abstract:

3.1 Introduction

3.2 Principles of polarisation

3.3 Experimental techniques to study polarisation

3.4 Polarisation structures in insects

3.5 Bio-inspired applications: anti-counterfeiting patterns

3.6 Conclusion

Chapter 4: Biomimetic nanostructures for anti-reflection (AR) devices

Abstract:

4.1 Introduction

4.2 Anti-reflection (AR)

4.3 Gradient refractive index structures

4.4 Biomimetic photonic and anti-reflecting nanostructures

4.5 Future trends and conclusions

4.6 Acknowledgements

4.8 Appendix: glossary of terms

Chapter 5: Control of iridescence in natural photonic structures: the case of butterfly scales

Abstract:

5.1 Introduction to structural colour

5.2 Types of structural colour in butterflies

5.3 Control of iridescence

5.4 Perspectives on butterfly biomimetics

Chapter 6: Fabrication of nanostructures using natural synthesis: optical materials using silk

Abstract:

6.1 Introduction

6.2 Silk optics and photonics

6.3 Silk electronics and optoelectronics

6.4 Conclusion

Chapter 7: Fluorescence control in natural green fluorescent protein (GFP)-based photonic structures of reef corals

Abstract:

7.1 Introduction

7.2 Green fluorescent protein (GFP) structure and diversity

7.3 Photoactive fluorescent proteins (PAFPs)

7.4 Conclusion

Index