ABSTRACT
Biominerals are formed in a large variety by organisms, giving them primarily mechanical protection and strength. Little is known up to now about their photonic properties and functions. Biomineralization is interesting for photonic scientists and engineers for several reasons. First, contrast in the refractive index is an intrinsic property of a biomineralized structure, leading to color effects due to selective reflection (Figure 2.1) and optical
CONTENTS
2.1 Optical Properties of Biominerals and Artificial Materials ................... 20 2.1.1 Calcium Carbonate .......................................................................... 21 2.1.2 Silica ...................................................................................................22 2.1.3 Artificial Optical Biominerals ........................................................23
