Butterfly Wings




Microstructure


butterfly wings are covered with thousands of monochromatic scale cells
which form regularly arranged patterns, ie, // rows of scale cells
in the proximal-distal direction of the wing

color pattern in butterfly wings is a kind of mosaic pattern
of dozens to hundreds of finely-tiled monochromatic scale cells



Fun Facts


Biomimetics

A butterfly flaps its wings ~ 20 times/second




Family: Nymphalidae
Genus: Morpho


Morpho Menelaus Butterfly Wings
are actually translucent -- examine it up-close


A paint was inspired by morpho menelaus butterfly wings
which get their iridescent blue coloration
from blue lightwaves
an optical interference
reflecting off the nanostructure of the wings

scientists use

SEM
scanning electronic microscope
spectroscopy
to understand these wings

Iridescent Blue Palette

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Likewise, the paint color comes from a specific lightwaves
that reflects off the nanostructure of the paint

Sustainability

such paint functions through structural color
rather than chemical pigments or dyes


Future

engineers investigating the possibilities of
micro-aerial vehicles
so as to carry out reconnaissance missions
or monitor the environment


Wing Tips

Here are some
Wing Tips
for your viewing pleasure