Butterfly inspired functional materials

Abstract As one of the most complex structures in nature, butterflies have attracted wide interest over the past few decades. Inspired by these delicate structures and the marvelous derived properties, scientists have investigated and biomimetic fabricated several designs to replicate the structure and to apply the functional features. Here, we present up-to-date researches concerning butterfly-inspired functional materials in different fields. After introducing the basic properties and corresponding structures, the bio-mimic fabrication methods are clarified and concluded. We then concerned about the applications, combining the modified butterfly wing and the fabricated replicas. The challenges and prospects of the further development of the butterfly inspired functional materials are conclusively presented.