Cutting-edge infrared thermal management materials: principles, modulation modes and applications

Abstract

Infrared (IR) thermal management is a process whereby a target object's infrared thermal management parameters are regulated and controlled through specific means, which can be categorized into heating, cooling and constant temperatures, depending upon the requirements of specific usage scenarios. Researchers have devoted extensive efforts for developing advanced IR thermal management materials and exploring their applications in areas of building energy efficiency, information encryption, smart healthcare, optoelectronic devices and IR camouflage. This work initially presents an overview of IR thermal management principles and modes. IR thermal management modes are classified into static and dynamic thermal management modes based on whether the effect is adjustable or not. According to the Stefan–Boltzmann law, dynamic infrared thermal management is based on temperature regulation and emissivity modulation. Subsequently, infrared thermal management materials, mainly carbon materials, are introduced, and the unique thermal management pathways associated with the intrinsic properties of different materials are elucidated. Relevant applications of infrared thermal management in civil and military fields are also discussed. Furthermore, future trends, possible challenges, and potential solutions are presented with perspectives in the concluding section, aiming to promote the development of infrared thermal management materials.