3D Rutile Titania‐Based Structures with <i>Morpho</i> Butterfly Wing Scale Morphologies

Abstract

Rutile replicas of butterfly scales: Rutile titania-based structures, retaining the morphology of wing scales of a Morpho butterfly (see pictures), are synthesized using an automated, surface sol–gel process. By doping a titanium alkoxide precursor solution with a tin alkoxide, rutile structures were formed at 450 °C. This method may be used to apply rutile coatings on other organic templates for biomedical, filtration, or optical applications. Supporting information for this article is available on the WWW under http://www.wiley-vch.de/contents/jc_2002/2008/z801311_s.pdf or from the author. Please note: The publisher is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supporting information supplied by the authors. Any queries (other than missing content) should be directed to the corresponding author for the article.