How a bird’s feathers helped scientists create the world’s darkest fabric
A Cornell University team has created the darkest fabric ever made, inspired by the ultrablack plumage of the magnificent riflebird. By combining polydopamine dye with plasma-etched nanostructures, they produced a flexible textile that absorbs nearly all visible light. The innovation offers new possibilities for fashion, solar technologies, imaging systems and any field requiring precise light control.
A Cornell University team has created the darkest fabric ever made, inspired by the ultrablack plumage of the magnificent riflebird. By combining polydopamine dye with plasma-etched nanostructures, they produced a flexible textile that absorbs nearly all visible light. The innovation offers new possibilities for fashion, solar technologies, imaging systems and any field requiring precise light control.
