Broadband omnidirectional perfect absorber based on carbon nanotube films

Abstract We report the design and simple fabrication process of a perfect absorber based on carbon nanotube films, which enable omnidirectional high absorption efficiency over the wavelength range from 250 nm to 20 μm with polarization independence. The absorber is fabricated using layers of super-aligned carbon nanotube (SACNT) films assembled in a unique manner, which could be easily prepared on stretchable or rigid substrates or suspended. The promising absorption characteristics of the SACNT films were attributed to not only the intrinsic optical properties of the carbon nanomaterials but also the unique surface nanostructures that efficiently trapped light. Moreover, the absorber and its fabrication method exhibit excellent compatibility with various composed materials and treatment processes. Through combination with ultraviolet-curable resist, a robust, ultrathin, and ultralight absorber with good mechanical properties was fabricated on stretchable substrates. The developed fabrication method opens a new path to realize high absorption performance using carbon nanomaterials and the obtained absorber has broad prospects in aerospace and military applications.