Dynamic radiation thermal management: Mechanism, multi-band, multimode, and application

Amid the global population surge and escalating energy demands, the energy crisis has become increasingly urgent, highlighting the need for the development of green technologies. Radiative thermal management enhances energy efficiency and reduces consumption by dynamically regulating the exchange of solar radiation (visible-near infrared) and inter-object radiative heat (mid-infrared). Utilising certain dynamically responsive smart materials, visible (VIS), near-infrared (NIR), and mid-infrared (MIR) spectrums can be dynamically modulated under external field influences. This paper reviewed the principles and advantages of visible, near-infrared, and mid-infrared light modulation from the perspectives of reflection, scattering, and absorption. It provides guidance for optimizing band-specific regulation and explores corresponding optical behavior modulation in application scenarios based on opaque and transparent systems. Furthermore, it focuses on multi-band, multi-mode optical behavior control methods for smart windows, analyzes the advantages and challenges of their future applications, and proposes recommendations for future development.