In China, scientists have created a new camouflage material that changes color based on its surroundings. This material could help in the development of objects that can become invisible to the human eye in the future.
Many animals have the ability to camouflage themselves to blend into their environment.
Human-made systems that replicate this process are quite complex and multi-dimensional. These systems identify their surroundings, understand their characteristics, and then make changes accordingly.
According to research published in Science Advances, scientists stated that current camouflage systems heavily rely on electrical devices, which face challenges such as complex structure, difficult usage, and high cost.
In the study, scientists explained that the new type of material undergoes a specific process called Self-Adaptive Photochromism (SAP), allowing it to blend with its surroundings, much like an octopus or chameleon.
When SAP materials are exposed to specific wavelengths of light, their molecules rearrange, causing the material’s color to change.
Scientists claim that compared to previous human-made camouflage systems, the new SAP material is simpler, cheaper, and easier to use.