Spectral blueshift as a three-dimensional structure-ordering process

The transmission spectra of a TiO2-silicone oil suspension in an increasing external electric field are studied. As the electric field increases, the structure of the suspension changes from a disordered one to an ordered one. Interestingly, the transmission spectra blueshift in this structure-ordering process. Furthermore, the relative transmission spectra exhibit Fano-like asymmetric line shapes. The deviation ratio of each asymmetric line shape increases monotonously as the disorder of the suspension decreases. We suggest that this blueshift phenomenon can be used to characterize the disorder strength of three-dimensional systems.