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

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Electromagnetics
• Optics

Background:

• Adaptive camouflage is crucial for ground targets in complex environments.
• Conventional materials lack radar/infrared stealth and flexibility.
• Existing solutions are often rigid and unsuitable for large-area deployment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a composite material with dynamic camouflage capabilities.
• To integrate microwave and infrared stealth properties.
• To enable low-cost, large-scale, and flexible production.

Main Methods:

• Utilized electromagnetic metastructures for camouflage and stealth.
• Implemented a modular driving control circuit for zoned color control (4x4 modules).
• Optimized film-forming for screen printing and laser etching.

Main Results:

• Achieved dynamic color transitions (deep green, light green, earth yellow, brown) under 3 V with a 25-second response time.
• Demonstrated broad-band microwave absorption (8-18 GHz, 6 GHz bandwidth).
• Reduced infrared emissivity (below 0.4) and temperature (22.3°C cooler than ground).

Conclusions:

• The developed material offers effective dynamic optical camouflage.
• Integrated microwave and infrared stealth capabilities are achieved.
• The material's production method facilitates practical, large-scale application.