Anti-Reflective Moth Eyes

Function

Moths have compound eyes that are covered by 200nm hexagonal bumps (facets) that are each spaced 300nm apart from each other (this is known as the “moth-eye structure”). Light that enters their eyes is refracted multiple times, efficiently moving light to the back of the eyes rather than reflecting it outward. Because the moth-eye structure does not reflect light from the moon, moths are able to camouflage themselves and blend into their surroundings, protecting them from predators. Having anti-reflective eyes is also helpful because moths use light to gauge their position. Since little light is lost to reflection, moths are able to utilize moonlight even though it is one million times dimmer than sunlight.

Functional Classification

Defense/Stability:
Light resistanceLight control

Environmental Solution Classification

Related Literature

"Nature 244, 281 - 282 (03 August 1973) Reduction of Lens Reflexion by the ""Moth Eye"" Principle、P. B. CLAPHAM & M. C. HUTLEY Insect Orientation to the Natural and Artificial Light. Mantaro HIRONAKA* and Takahiko HARIYAMA J. Appl. Entomol. Zool. 53: 135–145 (2009)"

Technical Application

Products and Services

Type of Business

Proposals of Applied Technology

The anti-reflective moth-eye structure can be used to design glare-free television and computer screens. It can also be used to improve antireflective films for solar cells, and to develop anti-reflective black solar cells.

Proposals of Applied Industry

Related Life Style