Dataset associated with "Flexible, photonic films of surfactant-functionalized cellulose nanocrystals for pressure and humidity sensing"

A robust alternative can be found in nature, where structural coloration can arise from the interference of light with submicron features. Plant-derived, cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) can mimic these features by self-assembling into a cholesteric liquid crystal that exhibits structural coloration when dried.

While much research has been done on CNCs in aqueous solutions, less is known about transferring CNCs to apolar solvents that are widely employed in paints. This study uses a common surfactant in agricultural and industrial products to suspend CNCs in toluene that are then dried into structurally colored films. Surprisingly, a stable liquid crystal phase is formed within hours, even with concentrations of up to 50 wt.-%.