American scientists from the University of California in Irvain in collaboration with the marine biological laboratory have decoded a mechanism that allows the ink to immediately change the color from transparent to morning. This discovery forms the basis of the new generation of smart materials to be able to adapt within the scope of seeing and infrared. The research was published in the Journal of Science.
The team found that the inductor cells of ink (Iridophores) contain coil columns of reflection proteins, acting as optical reflexes. These structures, like a sinusoidal, selectively transmit and reflect the light of certain wavelengths, provides an immediate change in color.
The ability to switch between transparency and color of Squid Squid.
Inspired by the natural mechanism, scientists have developed a synthetic material with the prescribed optical properties. With the help of a housing material – a three -dimensional visualized method based on low -intensity light – experts have regenerated structures similar to Iridophores, but with dilated functions.
The new material can not only simulate dynamic colors, but also adapt to the infrared range. This opens potential customers to create adaptive camouflage, versatile screen and new generation sensor.