Ultra-thin dual color rendering mechanism structural coloration film with freeze-resistant and self-cleaning properties

Localized manipulation of light interference and phase through surface microstructures provides new viable technologies for applications such as anti-counterfeiting, camouflage, high-density optical storage and display. However, the single-color rendering mechanism and the material’s intrinsic properties, such as hydrophilicity, low hardness and low melting point, limit the range of applications. In this paper, we propose a structural color based on ultrathin ZrO₂ thin films, which presents a visible full-spectrum color display. The structural color coating has ultrahigh flame retardancy, super UV resistance, super surface hardness and resistance to acid and alkali corrosion. The use of two different color development mechanisms realizes the hiding of the quick response (QR) code in visible light. The modified film exhibits superhydrophobic properties, unique anti-icing and self-cleaning properties, and shows the material’s potential for camouflage, anti-counterfeiting, military, marine and aerospace applications.