Bioinspired Digital Structural Color Patterning Based on Photonic Paper/Ink Systems

Abstract Structural colors, characterized by optical mechanisms (diffraction, interference, scattering) instead of molecular absorption, possess high saturation, wide color gamut, and photostability, thus attracting interest in photonic materials and green printing due to their environmental friendliness, stimulus responsiveness, and multifunctional integration potential. In this review, recent advances in structural color pattern construction are summarized based on the proposed “photonic ink‐paper dual‐system framework”, with a focus on the coupling relationship between digital patterning technologies (inkjet printing, direct ink writing). Photonic inks (active color‐generation systems, coloration via self‐assembly‐driven periodic micro/nanostructures) and photonic papers (passive color‐generation systems, color tuning through ink diffusion‐induced modulation of pre‐constructed photonic frameworks) are systematically categorized into colloidal crystal, block copolymer, cellulose nanocrystal, cholesteric liquid crystal, and blue phase liquid crystal subsystems, with analysis of their design principles, patterning strategies, and structure‐optics relationships. Key challenges are highlighted, including material compatibility and interfacial synergistic mechanisms between the two systems. Frontier applications are discussed to demonstrate the value and versatility of the dual‐system, such as smart displays, multidimensional information encryption, and visual sensing. By linking digital patterning technologies with photonic functionalities, this review provides new insights to guide future research toward scalable fabrication and industrial translation of structural color systems.