Parametric analysis and mechanism investigation of Laser-Induced structural colors on stacked Thin-Film metasurfaces

Abstract

The induction of red and green structural colors on titanium surfaces through laser-induced oxidation remains challenging, limiting the achievable color range within the visible spectrum. Structural colors based on surface plasmons, however, can generate a wide range of hues through the interaction of nanostructures with light. In this work, we proposed the employment of stacked thin-film metasurfaces (STFMs) composed of random nanoparticles to enhance electric fields and produce a wide color gamut, subjecting them to parametric analysis and mechanistic investigations. Electric field simulations of laser-induced STFMs reveal that the random distribution of AuNPs and CuNPs enhances uniform local surface plasmon resonance responses. This enhancement is crucial for broadening the coverage of the reflection spectrum, enabling the generation of a diverse range of colors. We have developed a response surface methodology (RSM) model to quantitatively analyze the influence of laser parameters on the color changes of STFMs, as well as the coupling effects among these parameters. Based on this model, color prediction becomes feasible, facilitating the rapid identification of desired colors without extensive experimentation. This work demonstrates the significant potential of our method in creating a broad color gamut on metallic surfaces, which could also serve as a means of information storage for preserving and protecting traditional culture.