Construction of wear-resistant visible-infrared-compatible camouflage film and its spectral control mechanisms

Abstract

The ceaseless advancement of modern surveillance technologies has underscored an urgent need for the development of stealth materials with multi-spectral camouflage capabilities. Spectral selectivity, achieved through the design of micro-nano structures, can effectively manage conflicting requirements across various light regimes. Nonetheless, creating visible-Infrared (IR)-compatible devices that are both structurally simple and suitable for use as optic windows or coatings remains a formidable challenge. Here, we report a MgF2/Ag/MgF2 visible-IR-compatible film based on Monte Carlo optimization which has high visible transparency, low IR emissivity, ideal wear-resistance, and dynamic tunability. The designed film can maintain high transparency (∼80%) to ensure replication of background without sacrificing low IR emissivity (∼0.3). Notably, the film maintains its spectral selectivity across a wide range of angles and is endowed with the capability for dynamic modality switching between “heating” and “cooling” states under electrical actuation with good stability under long-term service and harsh environment. This film has a maximum temperature characteristic modulation range of 3.5 °C, demonstrating excellent performance in intelligent thermal management. It is also compatible with electrochromic camouflage devices enabling it to cover a broader spectrum of reconnaissance without contradictions. It is an effective way to fulfill the camouflage requirements and smart thermal management across diverse environments, and possesses great potential for scalability and flexibility.