Dynamic graphical control of camouflage color with microwave/infrared stealth based on electromagnetic metastructures

Ground targets in complex environments demand adaptive camouflage that dynamically blends with the background. Conventional adaptive chromic materials often overlook radar wave absorption and infrared radiation reduction, compounded by rigidity constraints that hinder large-area deployments. This study presents a composite material with dynamic graphical control of camouflage color and microwave/infrared stealth capabilities enabled by electromagnetic metastructures. In the visible spectrum (380-760 nm), the material transitions between deep green, light green, earth yellow, and brown with a control voltage under 3 V and a response time of 25 seconds. A modular driving control circuit divides the material into 16 modules (4 × 4), allowing zoned color control, real-time pattern formation, and dynamic transformation. The material achieves broad-band microwave absorption from 8-18 GHz with at least -10 dB bandwidth of 6 GHz, and in the infrared band (8-14 µm), maintains an average emissivity below 0.4 and radiates 22.3°C cooler than the ground. These features enable effective microwave and infrared attenuation and dynamic optical control for various targets. By optimizing the film-forming process, the composite can be produced via screen printing and laser etching, facilitating low-cost, large-scale, flexible production. Its application via pasting or draping on target surfaces underscores its practical potential.