Structural-color-enabled multispectral heterostructure for infrared and laser camouflage

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Optics
• Nanotechnology

Background:

• Modern detection systems cover the entire optical spectrum, posing a significant threat to object survival.
• Multispectral-compatible camouflage (MCC) is crucial for countering these advanced detection capabilities.
• Conflicting camouflage principles across visible light, infrared (IR), and laser spectra necessitate spectrally selective design.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel multilayer film structure for effective multispectral-compatible camouflage (MCC).
• To reconcile the conflicting requirements of camouflage across visible, infrared, and laser spectra.
• To create a pattern-free camouflage solution with integrated thermal management and diverse structural colors.

Main Methods:

• Proposed a multilayer film structure utilizing heterostructure coupling, resonant cavities, destructive interference, and double-metal defect layers.
• Integrated infrared (IR), laser, and visible light camouflage functionalities into a single film.
• Varied resonant cavity thickness to achieve a wide color gamut in the visible spectrum.

Main Results:

• Achieved low emissivity in dual IR bands (∼0.2 at 3-5 µm and ∼0.4 at 7.5-13 µm) for thermal camouflage.
• Demonstrated low reflectance at 10.6 µm (∼0.3) for laser signal reduction.
• Exhibited excellent insensitivity to angles and polarization, with tunable structural colors in the visible range.

Conclusions:

• The developed MCC films offer a promising, pattern-free method for advanced camouflage.
• The design successfully integrates IR, laser, and visible light camouflage, addressing spectral conflicts.
• This technology holds significant potential for applications in thermal management and stealth camouflage.