Abstract

Self-assembly is a promising technique for fabricating three-dimensional photonic crystals due to the relative simplicity of the fabrication process and the ability of the finished structure to possess a full photonic bandgap [1]. Self-assembly involves taking a sample of uniformly sized microspheres and providing conditions in which they will arrange themselves periodically. Self-assembled photonic crystals are often called opals due to their similarities to the natural gemstone.

© 2007 IEEE