Functional biomimetic microlens arrays with integrated pores

Synthetic, biomimetic microlens arrays with integrated pores are presented for the first time. Their appearance and function are strikingly similar to their biological prototype -a highly efficient optical element formed by brittlestars (see Figure; biological (left) and synthetic (right) lens arrays). The microlenses have a strong focusing ability, and light-absorbing liquids can be transported in and out of the pores between the lenses, allowing tunability of their optical properties over a wide range.