The recent development of a soft tunable photonic crystal with enhanced thermal stability and optical purity by scientists sparks interest. This breakthrough reflects vivid colours in the visible spectrum and thus, holds the potential to revolutionize the manufacturing of more durable and better reflective displays and laser devices.
Understanding Photonic Crystals
Photonic crystals are essentially optical nanostructures where the refractive index undergoes periodic changes. To understand this better, one must know that the refractive index or the index of refraction is the measure of how much light bends when it moves from one medium to another.
This slight change in path plays a similar role in the propagation of light as the structure of natural crystals does in X-ray diffraction. It also affects atomic lattices or the crystal structure of semiconductors in a way that it alters their electron conductivity.
Photonic crystals can be found naturally in numerous instances of structural coloration and animal reflectors. They are present in vibrantly coloured elements found in nature such as the iridescent colours on opals, butterfly wings, and peacock feathers.
The Potential Uses of Photonic Crystals
Engineered or artificially produced photonic crystals show promising potential in a host of applications. From reflection coatings to optical computers, these crystals seem to be the materials of the future. One of the biggest advantages they offer is enabling computers to show structural colours in the visible spectral regime.
Scientists are constantly searching for ways to tune the properties of these crystals after fabrication. This has led them to focus on the development of advanced photonic materials and devices using Liquid Crystals (LC). LC exhibits properties of self-organization, phase transitions, and molecular orientation behaviors when exposed to external stimuli which makes them an interesting subject of research.
Creating Impact with Photonic Crystals
The technology harnessing photonic crystals is attracting significant interest due to its potential impact. For instance, the recent development of a tunable photonic crystal promises to create much-needed advancements in reflective displays and laser devices. Notably, these crystals have an enhanced thermal stability and optical purity which ensures longer durability of the devices they are used in.
Furthermore, the fact that these crystals reflect colours in the visible spectrum means that they can be used to improve the visual appeal of everyday gadgets. This makes them an attractive candidate for the design and production of next-generation electronic devices.
In conclusion, photonic crystals open up a world of possibilities in various fields. As research progresses, it is likely that the uses of these crystals will expand even further, potentially revolutionizing multiple sectors in the process.
Source: Press Information Bureau (PIB)