Bio-inspired photonics
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Bio-inspired photonics or bio-inspired optical materials are the application of biomimicry (the use of natural models, systems, and elements for human innovations[1]) to the field of photonics (the science and application of light generation, detection, and manipulation[2]). This differs slightly from biophotonics which is the study and manipulation of light to observe its interactions with biology.[3] One area that inspiration may be drawn from is structural color, which allows color to appear as a result of the detailed material structure.[4] Other inspiration can be drawn from both static and dynamic camouflage in animals like the chameleon[5] or some cephalopods.[6] Scientists have also been looking to recreate the ability to absorb light using molecules from various plants and microorganisms.[7] Pulling from these heavily evolved constructs allows engineers to improve and optimize existing photonic technologies, whilst also solving existing problems within this field.