Chameleons Inspire Multicolor 3D Printing

Researchers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign have developed a UV-assisted direct-ink-write 3D printing technique that enables dynamic color changes during the printing process. Inspired by the structural coloration of chameleons, this method allows a single ink to produce a wide range of colors by controlling light exposure and polymer assembly.

Key Findings

• The technique modulates structural color on the fly, creating color gradients not possible with traditional inks

• Unlike chemical pigments, structural colors arise from nano-textured surfaces, making them more vibrant and sustainable

• Researchers successfully printed colors spanning the visible spectrum, from deep blue to orange

• The process relies on cross-linkable bottlebrush block copolymers, which adjust their optical properties during printing

• This innovation could lead to new applications in adaptive materials, display technologies, and sustainable color production

Citation

Jeon, S., et al. (2024). Direct-ink-write cross-linkable bottlebrush block copolymers for on-the-fly control of structural color. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.