Gyroid “srs” Networks: Photonic Materials Beyond Nature

Abstract

The gyroid “srs” network is a bio-inspired, 3D periodic network with both cubic symmetry and chirality, which is modeled (and named) after the SrSi2 crystal. It is an excellent starting point for the development of chiral photonic materials and a powerful platform for the study of complex morphologies and novel photonic topological states. In this Progress Report, the most advanced top-down fabrication techniques, characterization methods, and applications of metallic and dielectric gyroid micro and nanostructures are reviewed. More importantly, new research directions involving these bio-inspired photonic materials are presented and their potential applications in integrated photonics, topological photonics, and medical sciences are discussed.