bio-inspired full-speCtrum blOck-copoLymer phOtonic strUctuRal pigments

2026-07-22

Photonic pigments are one of the most exciting topics in optics as they are expected to lead to a pure and brilliant colouration free from chemical- or photo-bleaching, which is a central goal in the future developments of paints, cosmetics, displays, and advanced photonic devices. Till now most efforts have been focused on amorphous packings of colloidal crystals, but limitations of synthesizing large quantities of photonic pigments based on these arrays are only beginning to emerge. Novel materials and approaches are thus necessary and, in this context, COLOUR aims to develop bio-inspired photonic pigments via the combination of structural colouration and light absorption. The key approach is to exploit the 3D self-assembly of block copolymers in concentric lamellar structures to generate full-spectrum photonic crystals with high reflectivity and angular independence, coupling these with broad-band absorbers to ensure colour purity and vividness. Specifically, high-visibility structural colour able to address the limitations of current photonic pigments will be achieved by altering four variables, namely size, blackness, refractive index, and arrangement of the nano-elements. COLOUR will rely on my competencies in polymer processing and characterization and the expertise of the host supervisors Prof. Ullrich Steiner and Prof. Christoph Weder in the domain of soft matter physics, polymer self-assembly, supramolecular polymers and materials science (outgoing phase, Adolphe Merkle Institute, University of Fribourg - Switzerland), and Prof. Davide Comoretto in photonics (incoming phase, Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Genova – Italy). COLOUR offers me the unique opportunity to acquire technical skills and experiences in several scientific fields that will be crucial to advance my career towards an independent academic position, as well as exposure to a technological problem of significant scientific, societal, and technological impact.

Italy

2025-12-15