Reconfigurable infrared camouflage coatings from a cephalopod protein

Abstract

In nature, cephalopods employ unique dynamic camouflage mechanisms. Herein, we draw inspiration from self-assembled structures found in cephalopods to fabricate tunable biomimetic camouflage coatings. The reflectance of these coatings is dynamically modulated between the visible and infrared regions of the electromagnetic spectrum in situ. Our studies represent a crucial step towards reconfigurable and disposable infrared camouflage for stealth applications.

Keywords: biomimetics; bionanotechnology; functional coatings; optically active materials; stimuli-responsive materials.