Chinese scientists develop color-changing material that mimics chameleon camouflage

In a study published in Science Advances, Chinese researchers unveiled a material that can change color at a molecular level to match its surroundings, offering a new form of real-time adaptive camouflage, according to the South China Morning Post. The team, led by Wang Dongsheng, developed what it names Self-Adaptive Photochromism (SAP), a technology that enables materials to automatically adjust their color based on ambient light conditions.

The SAP material mimics the adaptive camouflage abilities found in nature. Creatures like chameleons and octopuses have long fascinated scientists with their ability to blend seamlessly into their environments. 

The key to SAP technology lies in its molecular structure. When exposed to specific wavelengths of light, the molecules within the material rearrange themselves. "By adding more photochromic molecules or adjusting its composition, we aim to achieve finer distinctions in color and faster changing speed," Wang Dongsheng said, according to Business Standard.

Traditional camouflage systems often rely on complex electronic devices, sensors, and displays to replicate their environments, leading to high costs and limited usability. The South China Morning Post notes that these systems are complex structures with low efficiency due to their reliance on electronics. In contrast, SAP offers a simpler and more efficient solution, as it does not require external power sources or intricate electronics.

The researchers conducted experiments to demonstrate the capabilities of the SAP materials. In one experiment, a transparent chamber filled with SAP solution was placed into acrylic boxes of different colors—red, green, yellow, and black. Within 30 to 80 seconds, the material adapted to match its surroundings flawlessly, as reported by Business Standard. In another experiment, a container filled with SAP solution was placed in environments with matching colors such as plant clusters. The SAP solution seamlessly blended with the surrounding environment within the same time frame.

The SAP technology not only adapts quickly but also functions in extreme weather conditions, operating effectively within a temperature range of -20°C to 70°C, according to Business Standard. This makes it particularly viable for military and industrial applications.

Business Standard highlights the material’s possible uses in architecture and fashion. Coating vehicles or buildings with this material could enable them to blend seamlessly into their surroundings. In fashion, it could revolutionize clothing design by creating garments that shift and evolve with their environment.

Wang Dongsheng was inspired by the long-standing dream of having the superpower of invisibility and decided to adapt the chameleon's ability for humans, as noted by Gazeta.ru.

The researchers aim to expand the color range the material can mimic, including hues like purple and blue, which are not fully achievable with the current version, according to Business Standard. They are confident that by modifying the composition and adding more photochromic molecules, they can enhance the material's capabilities.

This article was written in collaboration with generative AI company Alchemiq