Circularly polarized colour reflection from helicoidal structures in the beetle Plusiotis boucardi

Details Circularly polarized colour reflection from helicoidal structures in the beetle Plusiotis boucardi Circularly polarized colour reflection from helicoidal structures in the beetle Plusiotis boucardi

Apr 2007

adsabs.harvard.edu/cgi-bin/nph-data_query?bibcode=2007njph....9...99j&link_type=abstract

New Journal of Physics, Volume 9, Issue 4, pp. 99 (2007).

Physics

6

Scientific paper

A detailed optical study of the iridescent outer-shell of the beetle Plusiotis boucardi has revealed a novel microstructure which controls both the polarization and wavelength of reflected light. A previously unreported hexagonal array across the integument of the beetle exhibits highly localized regions of reflection of only red and green left-handed circularly-polarized light. Optical and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) imaging reveals the origin of this effect as an array of 'bowl-shaped' recesses on the elytra that are formed from a dual-pitch helicoidal layer. Reflectivity spectra collected from the beetle are compared to theoretical data produced using a multi-layer optics model for modelling chiral, optically anisotropic media such as cholesteric liquid crystals. Excellent agreement is obtained between data and theory produced using a model that incorporates an upper isotropic layer (of cuticular wax), followed by a short pitch (310 (± 1) nm) overlying a longer pitch (370 (±1) nm) helicoidal layer of optically anisotropic material. These layers are backed by an absorbing underlayer. Synthetic replication of this form of structure may provide a route to the fabrication of tuneable micro-mirrors for optical applications.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

Circularly polarized colour reflection from helicoidal structures in the beetle Plusiotis boucardi does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.

If you have personal experience with Circularly polarized colour reflection from helicoidal structures in the beetle Plusiotis boucardi, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Circularly polarized colour reflection from helicoidal structures in the beetle Plusiotis boucardi will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1359622