Chinese researchers find new breakthrough in stealth material

NANJING: A team of researchers from Nanjing University has developed a type of skin-like metamaterial for dual-band camouflage, according to the university in east China. According to a report by CGTN, stealth technology is crucial for camouflage during nighttime or in outer space. To ensure effective stealth across both visible and infrared spectra, the material must exhibit a high rate of visible light absorption to blend with the dark surroundings, as well as a low infrared emissivity to mitigate infrared thermal radiation. Using the bottom-up template-assisted self-assembly processes, the team developed a unique cross-scale three-dimensional multistage structure based on Au nanoparticles assembled hollow pillars (NPAHP). The metamaterial is ideal for visible and infrared dual-band camouflage at night or in outer space, with an absorptivity as high as 0.947 in the visible band and an emissivity as low as 0.074/0.045 in the mid-wave/long-wave infrared band. With a micrometre thickness and periodic throu gh-holes, the metamaterial demonstrates superior skin-like attachability and permeability, allowing close attachment to a wide range of surfaces including the human body. The team is led by Professor Zhu Jia of the College of Engineering and Applied Sciences at the university, and the findings were published online in the journal Science Advances in June. Source: Emirates News Agency