Biomimetic chiral gyroids for photonic microstructures

This thesis investigates the use of biomimetic structures known as the gyroid network for nanophotonic applications. These biomimetic nanostructures are found in the green butterfly called Callophrys rubi. This research thesis demonstrated the replication of these bio inspired designs at microscopic scales using 3D laser nano-fabrication technology. Most importantly, through experimental and theoretical characterisation it was shown that these chiral photonic microstructures possess extremely high chiral-optical properties. The applications of these chiral nano-photonic structures will be of great importance to the design of microscopic optical polarisation devices, providing a unique functionality not possible with naturally occurring chiral materials.