Mechanically Robust and Broadband Blackbody Composite Films Based on Self-Assembled Layered Structures

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Optics

Background:

• Nacre (mother-of-pearl) exhibits remarkable mechanical strength and light manipulation properties.
• Developing advanced blackbody coatings with enhanced toughness and high solar absorptivity is crucial for various applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To fabricate large-scale black films inspired by nacre's microstructure.
• To incorporate carbon nanotubes for improved properties.
• To achieve high solar absorptivity and mechanical robustness simultaneously.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a facile self-assembly technique.
• Engineered a layered microstructure mimicking nacre.
• Incorporated carbon nanotubes into the film matrix.

Main Results:

• Successfully prepared large-scale black films with a nacre-like microstructure.
• Achieved a layered structure that enhances both blackness and toughness.
• Attained a high solar absorptivity of up to 96.9%.
• Demonstrated the robustness of the fabricated films.

Conclusions:

• The developed self-assembly technique provides facile access to advanced blackbody coatings.
• The nacre-inspired design strategy successfully integrates high solar absorptivity and mechanical strength.
• This approach is beneficial for creating versatile, high-performance black films.