Tunable structural coloration of ultrathin zirconia nanotubes film

Zirconium (Zr) is a rare metal widely used in aerospace and military applications. However, its single color does not meet the requirements of camouflage and aesthetics. Here, a series of ultrathin structural colorations of Zr by coating it with a one-step anodization procedure were realized. Tunable colors of ultrathin zirconia (ZrO2) films can be obtained by adjusting the anodization time and can be tuned throughout the entire visible range. The structural color could endure 30,000 s of rinsing tests, 400 & DEG;C heat resistance tests, and over 480 h of intense ultraviolet irradiation. Zr/ZrO2 films may have potential in color displays, camouflage, and anti-counterfeiting technology.

Automated summary

Researchers successfully achieve tunable structural colorations of zirconium (Zr) by coating it with a one-step anodization procedure. The colors of ultrathin zirconia (ZrO2) films can be adjusted by controlling the anodization time and cover the entire visible range. The structural color exhibits excellent stability withstanding rinsing, heat, and ultraviolet irradiation tests, suggesting its potential applications in color displays, camouflage, and anti-counterfeiting technology.