Imagine a lens so thin that it’s almost invisible to the naked eye. Scientists at Stanford and the University of Amsterdam have achieved just that, creating the world’s thinnest lens, measuring a mere three atoms thick. This groundbreaking development pushes the boundaries of optical technology and sets a new record, surpassing the previous thinnest lens from 2016, which was ten times thicker at 6.3 nanometers.
The lens is crafted from concentric rings of tungsten disulphide, a material that absorbs red light and re-emits it into a focal point just 1 mm away from the surface. This innovative design leverages the formation of short-lived quasiparticles called excitons, which decay and emit light, allowing the lens to selectively focus red light while letting other wavelengths pass through unaffected. This unique property opens up exciting possibilities for applications where undisturbed views are essential, such as in augmented reality glasses.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this lens is its potential for future advancements. The research team is exploring whether this technique can be adapted to create more complex coatings activated by small electrical zaps. This could revolutionize various fields, from wearable technology to advanced optical systems, by providing ultra-thin, highly efficient lenses that do not compromise on performance. The journey of this three-atom-thick lens is just beginning, and its impact on technology and science could be profound.
