A team of researchers has devised an innovative method for 3D printing a diverse range of dynamic colors using just one type of ink, drawing inspiration from the remarkable color-changing abilities of chameleons.
Ying Diao, an associate professor of chemistry and chemical and biomolecular engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, along with her colleagues at the Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, spearheaded this groundbreaking approach. Their findings were recently published in the journal PNAS.
Diao emphasized the significance of their collaborative effort, highlighting how the fusion of novel chemistries and printing techniques enables the real-time manipulation of structural color, resulting in unprecedented color gradients.
Unlike conventional pigments or dyes that absorb light, the colors generated through this method stem from nano-textured surfaces that interact with visible light, mimicking the vibrant hues found in biological systems.
Lead author Sanghyun Jeon, a graduate student in the Diao Lab, underscored the versatility of their approach, showcasing the production of structural colors across the visible spectrum, ranging from deep blue to orange. Rather than relying on an array of different paints, the researchers demonstrate the capability to achieve such a gradient using a single ink, adjusting the printing process accordingly.
Coauthor Damien Guironnet, an associate professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering, emphasized the collaborative nature of their endeavor, which facilitated the exchange of knowledge and expertise, leading to the development of this innovative system.
Simon Rogers, another coauthor and associate professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of shared experiences in overcoming challenges and driving progress.
Charles Sing, also a coauthor and associate professor of chemical and biomolecular engineering and materials science and engineering, emphasized the necessity of collective efforts in designing molecular-level systems with remarkable properties, underscoring the interdisciplinary nature of their achievement.