Controlled transmissivity, absorptivity, and reflectivity in IR wavelengths based on multilayer structure of simulation

Infrared camouflage, thermophotovoltaic energy conversion, and atmospheric science require optical device thermal radiation management. Phase-change materials (PCMs) serve as thermal radiation control switches owing to their capacity to transition between crystalline and amorphous states, but achieving independent regulation of multifunctional optical properties within a single device remains a challenge. Here, we report a multilayer thin-film architecture utilizing the PCM In₃SbTe₂, capable of generating eight structural modes by varying its crystalline state across different layers. Simultaneously, exceptional average transmissivity (0.76 and 0.72), average absorptivity (0.72 and 0.96), and average reflectivity (0.84 and 0.84) were attained in 3- to 5- and 8- to 14-μm infrared wavelengths, respectively. Further, the structural adaptability and universal thermal radiation capabilities of multilayer thin-film structures were validated by automatic substitution of three more PCMs using Python. In conclusion, our findings exhibit superior optical qualities derived from simulations and offer an innovative structural design option for multifunctional coupling devices.