Diffractive and coloured films by laser interferometry patterning

► Phase mask laser interference allows adjusting colour and diffractive properties. ► Diffractive properties can be tailored through laser and optical configurations. ► Surface plasmon resonance of laser induced nanoparticles leads to intrinsic colours. ► Intrinsic reflectivity can be enhanced by accumulating laser pulses. ► Initial metal coverage and number of laser pulses determine nanoparticle size.