Multi-Band Compatible Camouflage Enabled by Phase Transition Modulation of Flexible Gst Films

Abstract

With the rapid development of detection technology, there is an urgent need for multi-band compatible camouflage technology, particularly in the visible-infrared band. However, the conflicting requirements between camouflage across different bands and surface thermal management pose significant challenges in achieving synchronized control for multiple bands in diverse application environments and targets. Herein, we propose a spectrally selective emitter leveraging phase-change modulation of Ge2Sb2Te5, capable of achieving effective camouflage in both the visible band and two atmospheric windows over a wide temperature range. The designed emitters exhibit colorful appearances, compatible with various background environments, thereby ensuring the visible camouflage. Meanwhile, the emitters demonstrate low emissivity values of 0.1 in the MWIR band and 0.08 in the LWIR band, effectively reducing the infrared emission through atmospheric windows.The radiative temperatures of the optimized emitters in the MWIR and LWIR bands are reduced by 105 °C and 140 °C relative to the target surface (200 °C), respectively, providing excellent radiative suppression compared to similar studies. Remarkably, the designed emitter still demonstrates robust flexibility, making it suitable for a variety of targets with complex curved surfaces. This work paves the way for designing the flexible visible-infrared compatible camouflage coatings with integrated thermal management functionality.

Keywords: Visible-infrared camouflage, Thermal modulation, Ge2Sb2Te5, Flexible multi-layers