
The abstract states, “Multilayer grating structures, such as those found on the wings of the butterfly Cynandra opis, are able to interact with light to generate structural coloration.

In their study, the team explained how they used 3D printed butterfly-inspired nanostructures to create artificial, structural colors, which often have a better environmental footprint and don’t fade when exposed to light, as opposed to more typical pigments. From fashion and art to research in color and lightweighting, butterfly wings have inspired many an innovation, most recently a team of researchers from ETH Zurich whose latest work could one day lead to better color screens.
