Hierarchically roughened microplatelets enhance the strength and ductility of nacre-inspired composites

- Microplatelets with nanoroughness are created by nanoparticle surface adsorption.
- Smaller nanoparticles on platelets improve strength and stiffness of composites.
- Larger nanoparticles increase ductility at the expense of strength and stiffness.
- Hierarchically roughened platelets combine the benefits of both nanoparticle sizes.