Programmable Microfluidics for Dynamic Multiband Camouflage

Abstract

Multiband optic manipulation covering both visible and infrared region is challenging due to the wide involved wavelengths and differentiated regulation demand in diverse regions. In this work, we propose a programmable microfluidic strategy, which use dye molecules in layered fluids to manipulate visible light and infrared semi-transparent solvent to manipulate infrared lights. With three primary fluids input, we achieve 64 chromaticity values and 8 emissivities from 0.42 to 0.90. In view of the wide tuning range, we demonstrate the microfluidic film can dynamically change its surface reflectance to blend into varying backgrounds both in visible and infrared images. Moreover, we fabricate the microfluidic device in a textile form and demonstrate its ability in matching exactly with natural leaves of different seasons in full hyper-spectrum. Considering the broadband modulation and ease of operation, the programmable microfluidic strategy provides a feasible approach for smart optical surfaces in long span optical spectrum.