Full-model Finite-element Analysis for Structural Color of Tarsiger cyanurus's Feather Barbs

This paper presents full modeling of the cross-section of a blue feather barb of Tarsiger cyanurus and computed optical properties of the barb by means of finite element simulations. Cross-sectional models of the blue barbs are created based on SEM and TEM observations and are characterized on the basis of the radial sizes and the arrangements of air-pores. Large-scale finite element method is employed in order to investigate reflective properties of a blue feather barb. Measured and computed results show good agreement in the visible wavelength range, when we take into account optical absorption of keratin.