Vantablack: Absorption of Infrared and Ultraviolet Spectrums

Vantablack, the material that absorbs over 99.965% of visible light, is also known for its exceptional ability to absorb infrared and ultraviolet (UV) spectra. This unique property makes Vantablack a versatile material with broad applications in scientific instruments and artistic uses. In this article, we will explore the absorption characteristics of Vantablack in the infrared and ultraviolet spectrums, as well as its applications and limitations.

Understanding Vantablack

Vantablack is a nanomaterial developed by Surrey NanoSystems. It was first introduced as a highly black paint that is almost invisible to the naked eye when applied to surfaces. Its exceptional ability to absorb light, including infrared (IR), ultraviolet (UV), and visible light, has made it a game-changer in the fields of science and art.

Infrared Absorption

According to the manufacturer, Vantablack effectively absorbs across a wide range of wavelengths, specifically mentioning far-infrared and UV spectrums. The material has a nearly perfect absorption rate in the infrared range, making it highly effective for applications that require low reflectivity.

Far-Infrared Absorption

The material's absorption characteristics extend into the far-infrared spectrum, which is crucial for its use in certain scientific instruments and space technologies, where minimal reflection is necessary. This feature is particularly useful in applications such as thermal imaging and radiation shielding. Here, the strong absorption of far-infrared radiation by Vantablack ensures that it remains stable and acts as an effective absorber.

Ultraviolet Absorption

Along with its infrared absorption capabilities, Vantablack also effectively absorbs ultraviolet light. This dual absorption property makes it ideal for applications that require protection from both visible and invisible light.

Artistic and Scientific Applications

Vantablack has become a popular choice among artists due to its ability to create visually stunning works. In the scientific world, its high absorption rates make it invaluable for applications such as optical metrology, experiments in quantum physics, and thermal management.

Vantablack C-VIS Version

It is important to note that different versions of Vantablack have varying absorption properties. For instance, the C-VIS version, which is sprayable, is slightly less effective than the original version but is more easily applied. However, even the C-VIS version is sufficient for applications such as the insides of cameras, where minimal light reflection is crucial.

Manufacturers' Claims

According to the manufacturer, Vantablack absorbs light from ultraviolet (200-350 nm) into the far infrared (16 microns) spectrum without any spectral features. This wide range of absorption makes Vantablack a robust and versatile material, capable of handling various applications with ease.

Applications and Limitations

The wide-ranging absorption characteristics of Vantablack make it a valuable material in both the scientific and artistic domains. However, its limited availability due to an exclusive contract means that alternative materials, such as Singularity Black or Nanolab's extremely black paint, are often used in situations where Vantablack is not an option.

Alternative Materials

While Vantablack remains the gold standard in highly black surfaces, other materials are available for specific applications. For instance, Singularity Black, released by Nanolab, has similar properties to Vantablack and can be a reliable alternative for artists and scientists who need a highly black surface but may face limitations due to the exclusive contract with Surrey NanoSystems.

In summary, Vantablack is a remarkable material that not only excels in absorbing visible light but also infrared and ultraviolet light. Its versatile nature makes it an invaluable tool in the scientific and artistic worlds. However, its limited availability due to an exclusive contract means that alternative materials are often considered for specific applications.