Army discovery could help build 3D photonic crystals to improve electro-optical applications like lasers

Oct. 7, 2020
High-efficiency lasers are key to Army modernization in air and missile defense, as they play a key role in precision sensing, directed energy systems.

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. – A U.S. Army-funded landmark discovery at New York University could change the way researchers develop and use electro-optical technologies like lasers, sensors, and photonic circuits over the next decade. EurekAlert! reports. Continue reading original article

The Military & Aerospace Electronics take:

7 Oct. 2020 -- After years of research, the team of scientists achieved what many thought was perhaps impossible: they developed a method to create colloids that crystallize into the diamond lattice.

This photonic technique could lead to cheap, reliable, and scalable fabrication of 3D photonic crystals for optical circuits and light filters.

These 3D photonic crystals -- self-assembled formations of miniscule materials in a stable assembly -- could open the door to lightweight high-efficiency lasers, precise light control with 3D photonic circuits, and new materials for managing thermal or radio signatures.

Related: Wanted: electro-optics companies able to build multispectral sensor for persistent surveillance

Related: Navy asks Kent Optronics to develop wide-field-of-view binocular night-vision goggles

Related: Future weapons: Solid-state lasers

John Keller, chief editor
Military & Aerospace Electronics

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Military Aerospace, create an account today!