A team of researchers from Nanjing University has achieved a significant breakthrough in stealth technology by developing a skin-like metamaterial designed for dual-band camouflage. This innovative material is engineered to function effectively in both visible and infrared spectra, making it ideal for applications in low-light conditions and outer space.
Stealth technology plays a crucial role in enabling camouflage during nighttime operations or in the vacuum of space. To maintain effective stealth across both visible and infrared bands, the material must exhibit a high absorption rate of visible light to blend seamlessly into dark environments while simultaneously demonstrating low infrared emissivity to minimize thermal signature.
The research team employed a bottom-up template-assisted self-assembly process to create a unique cross-scale three-dimensional multistage structure. This structure is based on gold (Au) nanoparticles assembled into hollow pillars (NPAHP), which contribute to the material's remarkable properties.
The resulting metamaterial boasts an absorptivity of up to 0.947 in the visible spectrum and emissivity as low as 0.074 for mid-wave infrared and 0.045 for long-wave infrared bands. With a micrometer thickness and periodic through-holes, the material exhibits superior skin-like attachability and permeability, allowing it to adhere closely to a variety of surfaces, including the human body.
Led by Professor Zhu Jia of the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences at Nanjing University, the team's findings were published online in the journal Science Advances in June. This advancement marks a significant step forward in the development of versatile and effective stealth materials for a range of high-tech applications.
Reference(s):
Chinese researchers find new breakthrough in stealth material
cgtn.com