Researchers develop pigment-free white material using light-etched porous polymer foam

The short version

• Researchers from Kyoto University, Tokyo Metropolitan University, and Donghua University developed a biomimetic foam that produces structural whiteness without titanium dioxide pigments or PFAS chemicals.[ScienceDaily]
• The process, known as Deep Foam Photolithography, utilizes light exposure and a mild solvent to produce microscopic light-scattering pores and a water-resistant texture.[ScienceDaily]
• The method works on commercial polymers across fabrics and films, though researchers note matching the commercial scale and cost of existing materials remains a challenge.[ScienceDaily]

Key facts

• Researchers at Kyoto University, Tokyo Metropolitan University, and Donghua University created a nature-inspired porous foam exhibiting structural whiteness and water repellency without titanium dioxide pigments or PFAS chemicals.[ScienceDaily]
• The Deep Foam Photolithography process exposes polymers to light to break them into fragments before a mild solvent swells the structure into a porous light-scattering network.[ScienceDaily]
• The method was demonstrated on commercially available polymers for fabrics and printable films at resolutions up to 20,000 DPI.[ScienceDaily]
• The European Union has banned titanium dioxide as a food additive over safety concerns, while PFAS substances face scrutiny for persistence and health risks.[ScienceDaily]

Sources

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.

• Scientists create brilliant white material without a drop of white pigmentScienceDaily - Science