Topological invariance in whiteness optimisation

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Optics
• Condensed Matter Physics

Background:

• Maximizing visible light scattering in disordered nano-structured materials is crucial for applications like optical brighteners.
• Understanding the relationship between structural features and scattering properties has been a challenge in the field.
• Light scattering in disordered systems is fundamental to light-matter interactions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically investigate light scattering in correlated disordered nano-structured materials.
• To identify key structural features that determine scattering efficiency.
• To provide a framework for optimizing disordered systems for enhanced optical scattering.

Main Methods:

• Systematic investigation of light scattering in correlated disordered structures.
• Analysis of the influence of topological invariants (filling fraction, correlation length) on scattering.
• Quantification of the role of surface-averaged mean curvature.
• Inclusion of structural anisotropy as a parameter.

Main Results:

• Scattering efficiency is primarily determined by topologically invariant features like filling fraction and correlation length.
• Surface-averaged mean curvature accounts for residual variations in scattering efficiency.
• Optimal scattering can be achieved across a wide range of disordered structures.
• Structural anisotropy significantly impacts scattering optimization.

Conclusions:

• Disordered systems can be optimized for whiteness and optical scattering performance.
• Topological features are key determinants of scattering efficiency in disordered materials.
• These findings have significant implications for the industrial application of low-index materials for optical scattering.