Reversible crosslinking density stimulated diffraction wavelength tuning of hydrogel-encapsulated crystalline colloidal arrays

The reversible variation in the observed stop band of a hydrogel-encapsulated crystalline colloidal array was achieved through the selective formation and destruction of –S–Pb–S– linkages within the hydrogel. A reversible 45 nm stop band shift could be achieved with a cyclical treatment of Pb2+ and then dithiothreitol solution.

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► Hydrogel-stabilized crystalline colloidal array composed of polystyrene particles.
► Selective formation and destruction of –S–Pb–S– linkages within the hydrogel.
► Variation in crosslinking density allowed for variation in observed stop band.
► Stop band variation varied by 45 nm with minor Pb2+ exposure.