Disordered Inverse Photonic Beads Assembled From Linear Block Copolymers.

Structurally colored colloids, or photonic pigments, offer a sustainable alternative to conventional dyes, yet existing systems are constrained by limited morphologies and complex synthesis. In particular, achieving angle-independent color typically relies on disordered inverse architectures formed from synthetically demanding bottlebrush block copolymers (BCPs), hindering scalability and functional diversity. Here, we report a conceptually distinct strategy to assemble three-dimensional inverse photonic glass microparticles using amphiphilic linear BCPs (poly(styrene-block-4-vinylpyridine), PS-b-P4VP) via an emulsion-templated process.

Dynamic Photonic Janus Colloids with Axially Stacked Structural Layers.

Diblock copolymer (dBCP) particles capable of dynamic shape and color changes have gained significant attention due to their versatility in programmable shapes and intricate nanostructures. However, their application in photonic systems remains limited due to challenges in achieving a sufficient number of defect-free photonic layers over a tens-of-micrometer scale. In this study, we present a pioneering demonstration of photonic dBCP particles featuring over 300 axially stacked photonic layers with responsive color- and shape-transforming capabilities.