The synthesis of core-shell monodisperse P(St-MAA) microspheres and fabrication of photonic crystals Structure with Tunable Colors on polyester fabrics

The core-shell monodisperse P(St-MAA) microspheres with different diameters ranging from 200 nm to 400 nm were prepared by soap-free emulsion copolymerization, in which styrene (St) and methacrylic acid (MAA) were polymerizable monomers, and ammonium persulfate (APS) acted as initiator. The diameters and monodispersity of P(St-MAA) microspheres could be controlled by adjusting the concentrations of styrene, methacrylic acid and ammonium persulfate. The core-shell structure and chemical component distribution of the P(St-MAA) microspheres were confirmed by TEM and XPS. The photonic crystals on polyester fabrics with three-dimensionally ordered arrangement were fabricated by self-assembly of gravitational sedimentation with P(St-MAA) microspheres and exhibited brilliant structural colors without any chemical dyes and pigments. SEM, TEM and crystallographic analysis were applied to confirm a face centered cubic (fcc) structure of the photonic crystals on polyester fabrics. The versatile structural colors of the photonic crystals were dependent on the photonic band-gap which could be regulated by the spherical size of P(St-MAA) microspheres and viewing angles. This technology may provide a new strategy to color the fabrics and reduce the pollution in the current textile industry.