Scientists at USyd Perfect Invisible Paint
Scientists at the University of Sydney have announced a breakthrough in invisible paint technology, after tests across the library system confirmed students are unable to see the word Silent when it is painted directly in front of them.
Dr Christopher Mon, chief researcher, said the results were 'extraordinary'.
'We believed large letters on a wall would be visible,' Dr Mon said. 'But under library conditions, especially near Flying Turtle cups and group assignments, the message disappears entirely.'
The technology has since expanded to printed signs.
'Yeah, I don't know why those blank white signs are on the desks,' said first-year student Beatrice Ogan. 'I use them to prop up my phone when I FaceTime my mum.'
Second-year sociology student Ivy Diot was shocked to learn there were messages on the walls.
'There are?' she asked, sitting beneath one. 'I thought that was just university decor.'
Third-year law student Daniel Rongo praised the innovation.
'I'm looking right at it and I don't see anything,' he said, speaking at full volume in a silent study area. 'If they want people to be quiet, they should put up a sign.'
Rongo later clarified that, as he was merely passing between the Law Library and Fisher Library, he existed in what legal scholars call a transitional corridor of personal sovereignty, during which posted rules briefly cease to apply.
Dr Mon said earlier versions of the paint had been tested on signs reading Keep Left Unless Overtaking, Use Other Door, and Employees Must Wash Hands, with similar success.
Back in the library, Ivy and her friends remained unconvinced.
'It's weird to hide a message like that,' Ivy said, seated inside a library, surrounded by several thousand books, dozens of students attempting to study, and a large wall-mounted instruction. 'If they want us to be quiet, they should make it obvious.'
She paused.
'I mean, I'm not stupid.'