Bio-Inspired Photonic Coatings for Passive Thermal Regulation
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Portée du projet
Catégories
Génie chimique Durabilité environnementale Scientific researchCompétences
nanoscopic scale energy efficiency improvement scalability photonics metal coating optics hvacNature has evolved materials that manipulate light with remarkable efficiency — butterfly wings, beetle shells, and certain fossilized shells all display vivid structural color created by nanoscale layering.
This project explores how bio-inspired, multilayer photonic coatings can be engineered to reflect infrared radiation while transmitting visible light, creating passive cooling surfaces for buildings, vehicles, or wearable materials.
The goal is to design, model, and prototype coatings that reduce heat absorption without relying on traditional pigments or electrical energy — contributing to sustainable, zero-power climate control.
Objectives
1. Analyze Structural Color Mechanisms:
Study natural photonic systems that produce iridescence through nanoscale interference.
2. Design Photonic Layer Structures:
Simulate multi-layer stacks
3. Fabricate Experimental Coatings:
Use low-cost, eco-friendly methods (sol–gel, spin-coating, or layer-by-layer deposition).
4. Test Optical & Thermal Performance:
Quantify visible color, IR reflectivity, and surface temperature under controlled light conditions.
5. Assess Real-World Impact:
Model potential energy savings and environmental benefits in different climate zones.
Student Deliverables
Simulation Report:
Predictive optical model showing wavelength reflectivity across visible and IR spectra.
Prototype Coating:
5–10 cm² film sample demonstrating color and heat-reduction effect.
Thermal Efficiency Data:
Comparative measurements vs. conventional paint or glass coatings.
Sustainability Report:
Lifecycle cost, recyclability, and scalability assessment.
Final Presentation:
Design proposal highlighting how photonic layering could improve energy efficiency.
Fournir des connaissances spécialisées et approfondies et l'industrie générale des idées pour une compréhension globale.
Partager des connaissances sur des compétences techniques spécifiques, des techniques, méthodologies requises pour le projet.
Implication directe dans les tâches du projet, en offrant des conseils et démonstration de techniques.
Donner accès aux outils, logiciels et ressources nécessaires pour la réalisation du projet.
Enregistrements programmés pour discuter des progrès, relever les défis et fournir des commentaires.
Causes prises en charge
Les défis mondiaux auxquels ce projet s'attaque, en accord avec les objectifs de développement durable (ODD) des Nations unies. En savoir plus sur les 17 ODD ici.
À propos de l'entreprise
Lucentara
Science | Technology | Innovation
Lucentara is a Canadian science and innovation company dedicated to advancing the study and application of ammolite and other natural materials. Founded by Caitlin Furby and Mark Turner, Lucentara operates at the intersection of geology, materials science, and design — exploring how nature’s rarest formations can inspire modern advancements in technology and sustainability.
Through ongoing research partnerships and applied experimentation, Lucentara develops cutting-edge methods for fossil preservation, laser restoration, and structural color analysis. Every discovery contributes to the deeper understanding of ammolite’s optical and geological properties, positioning Lucentara as a pioneer in natural photonics and gemstone science.
Lucentara represents the future of Canadian innovation — where art, science, and nature converge.
Dinosty Fossils
Mining | Restoration | Heritage
Dinosty Fossils is the foundation of Alberta’s ammolite industry — a mining and restoration company co-founded by Mark Turner and Caitlin Furby, specializing in the ethical extraction and preparation of ammonite fossils and gem-grade ammolite from the Bearpaw Formation.
Operating across more than 1,200 hectares of mineable land in Southern Alberta, Dinosty Fossils combines traditional field expertise with modern restoration technology to bring prehistoric treasures back to life. Every specimen is meticulously excavated, stabilized, and restored by hand, honoring both its geological origin and its natural artistry.
Through Dinosty Fossils, Furby and Turner have built one of Canada’s most respected fossil operations — supplying collectors, museums, and jewelers worldwide while preserving the integrity and story of each discovery.
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