Color simulation for multilayered thin films using Python

TL;DR

This paper introduces an open-source Python tool for simulating the reflectance spectra and color of multilayered thin films, aiding in understanding material microstructure through optical properties.

Contribution

It provides a comprehensive overview of electrodynamics related to reflectance and offers a validated Python code for simulating and analyzing color spectra in multilayered thin films.

Findings

The Python code accurately simulates reflectance spectra.

The simulation results align with literature and experimental data.

The tool enhances understanding of material microstructure through color analysis.

Abstract

Physical insight into a material can be first gained by its color since the reflectance spectrum from an object reflects its microstructure and complex reflective indices. We here present a comprehensive overview of electrodynamics and optics related to reflectance spectra and color and provide an open-source Python code for simulating reflectance spectra and extracting color values. The validity and applicability of the code are demonstrated through comparative analysis with both literature and experimental data.