Abstract
Three-dimensional photonic-crystal grains were found in the scales of the longhorn beetle Prosopocera lactator (Cerambycidae). The local geometric structure can be described as a face-centered-cubic array of spheres, connected by short rods, reminiscent of the "ball-and-stick" models used by solid-state chemists to visualize atomic structures. Based on scanning electron microscopy, x-ray nanotomography, optical measurements, photonic band-structure calculations, and computer simulations of the reflectance, the desaturated greenish coloration is shown to arise from the observed photonic polycrystalline structure. X-ray nanotomography is revealed as a very promising tool for photonic-crystal morphology studies.
Original language | English |
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Journal | Physical Review E - Statistical, Nonlinear, and Soft Matter Physics |
Volume | 85 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 10 Jan 2012 |
Equipment
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Scanning electron microscope
Charles Nicaise (Manager) & Francesca Cecchet (Manager)
Technological Platform Morphology - ImagingFacility/equipment: Equipment