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Citation: Yafei Wang, Yan Zhang, Wei Li, Tingting Wang, Jiexuan Yang, Hui He, Ying Guan, Yongjun Zhang. The Secret Dance of Colors: Exploring How Colloidal Crystals Refract Beautiful Light and Shadows[J]. University Chemistry, ;2026, 41(4): 417-423. doi: 10.12461/PKU.DXHX202504026 shu

The Secret Dance of Colors: Exploring How Colloidal Crystals Refract Beautiful Light and Shadows

Yafei Wang ^1,, ,
Yan Zhang ² ,
Wei Li ¹ ,
Tingting Wang ¹ ,
Jiexuan Yang ¹ ,
Hui He ¹ ,
Ying Guan ³ ,
Yongjun Zhang ^2,,

1.
College of Pharmacy, Tiangong University, Tianjin 300387, China;
2.
College of Chemistry, Tiangong University, Tianjin 300387, China;
3.
College of Chemistry, Nankai University, Tianjin 300100, China

Corresponding author: Yafei Wang, Yongjun Zhang,
Received Date: 8 April 2025
Accepted Date: 30 June 2025

Structural color arises from light reflection and interference phenomena in micro-nano architectures, a phenomenon ubiquitously observed in nature, exemplified by butterfly wings and avian plumage. Distinguished from conventional pigments, structural coloration demonstrates superior stability and environmental compatibility, rendering it valuable for applications in anti-counterfeiting technologies, optical sensing, and biomimetic materials. This research employs temperature-responsive microgels as model systems, guiding students through controlled synthesis and colloidal crystal self-assembly processes to systematically explore the fundamental mechanisms and modulation principles of structural color formation. Monodisperse crosslinked microgels with excellent thermoresponsive properties were synthesized via free-radical precipitation polymerization, enabling precise control over aqueous self-assembly through temperature modulation. The pedagogical framework seamlessly integrates material synthesis, structural characterization, and optical property evaluation, complemented by interactive science communication components. This comprehensive approach effectively stimulates students' research curiosity while cultivating scientific reasoning and innovative capacities.
- Structural color,
- Colloidal crystal,
- Microgel,
- Self-assembly
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