Zein-based photonic crystals and uses thereof
AssigneeNortheastern University
InventorsLeila Deravi, Patrick Sullivan, Zhuangsheng Lin, Cassandra Leigh Martin, Ivy Wang, Duncan Bower
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Abstract
Described herein are photonic crystals comprising a plurality of substantially uniform zein particles. The photonic crystals can be fabricated by assembling the plurality of substantially uniform zein particles into one or more ordered and periodic structures that generate structural color. Also described herein are methods of using the photonic crystals described herein, e.g., as colorants in consumer products, such as food, drugs and/or cosmetics.
Claims26
A photonic crystal comprising a plurality of substantially uniform zein particles.
A method of imparting a color to a surface, comprising:
- a) providing a mixture comprising a plurality of substantially uniform zein particles in a liquid;
- and
- b) applying the mixture to a surface, and
- c) evaporating the liquid to produce one or more photonic crystals comprising the substantially uniform zein particles,
- thereby imparting a color to the surface.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.