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This article discusses how scientists have developed sustainable and biodegradable colors inspired by the structural properties of beetles' cuticles. By using chitin, a material found in beetle cuticles, researchers have created optical structures that can produce vibrant and iridescent colors. This study highlights the importance of looking to nature for innovative solutions in material science.
Beetles living in the dark teach us how to make sustainable colors
March 13, 2024
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Inspired by beetle cuticles, scientists have developed optical structures that can produce vibrant, iridescent and completely biodegradable colors using chitin—the world’s second most abundant organic material.
“Extreme scarcity conditions have enabled natural materials to evolve into some of the most extraordinary materials on Earth, such as incredibly strong spider silk and impact-resistant seashells,” said Javier Fernandez, Associate Professor of Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD).
Throughout history, scientists have consistently turned to nature for inspiration to solve problems and develop new technologies, from da Vinci’s flying machines modeled after birds to efficient swimsuits that mimic shark skin.
A decade ago, Assoc Prof Fernandez proposed to use nature as not only a source of inspiration for materials science, but a blueprint of