Inspired by nature, we fabricated optically tuned bio-organic films of cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) and chitosan by precisely structuring layer-by-layer (LBL) assembly techniques. Directly extracted from tunicate, highly crystalline CNFs were deposited into gradual nanoporous structures, which dictates wave-like behaviors of optical transmittance and cyclic patterns of structural coloration. The optical transmittance of a glass substrate increased from 91% to 98.2% at a wavelength of 550 nm by reflectivity attenuation controls. The monochromic structural colors were discretely varied from orange to purple, seen only at a specific angle of the incident light, demonstrating visibly hidden security potential. Furthermore, we could modulate the coloration cycles by accelerating the LBL processes with polydopamine-coated CNFs. The 3D nanoporous structures of CNFs also provide synergies, including superhydophilic surface-driven antifogging properties. Our optically versatile biofilms made by all-natural CNFs and chitosan provide various potential applications, including solar cells, securities, and eco-friendly colors.
Keywords: Anti-counterfeit; Anti-fogging; Anti-reflective; Crystalline celluloses; Nanocelluloses; Photonic crystals; Structural colors; Tunicate celluloses.
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