Bioinspired Supramolecular Photonic Composites: Construction and Emerging Applications

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Supramolecular Chemistry
• Photonics

Background:

• Organisms utilize structural colors for survival.
• Artificial photonic composites are inspired by natural structural colors.
• Supramolecular chemistry offers new avenues for advanced photonic materials.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review constructive strategies for supramolecular photonic composites.
• To summarize their unique properties and emerging applications.
• To discuss future challenges and perspectives in the field.

Main Methods:

• Incorporating supramolecular polymers into colloidal photonic arrays.
• Coassembly of colloidal particles with supramolecular polymers.
• Self-assembly of soft colloidal particles and functionalization of photonic elastomers via supramolecular interactions.

Main Results:

• Supramolecular interactions impart stimuli-responsiveness and self-healing capabilities.
• These composites exhibit unique optical and mechanical properties.
• Applications include colorful coatings, motion monitoring, and biochemical sensors.

Conclusions:

• Supramolecular photonic composites offer versatile design strategies.
• They hold significant potential for advanced functional materials.
• Further research is needed to address current challenges and unlock full potential.