Thinnest optical diffuser for new applications

Scattering centers (black disks) on the transparent substrate scatter certain colors of light. Graphic: Dennis Arslan/Universität Jena - Team of physicists developed novel optical component based on metamaterials of silicon nanoparticles Light Miniaturization of optical components is a challenge in photonics. Researchers of Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) and Friedrich Schiller University Jena have now succeeded in developing a diffuser, a disk that scatters light, based on silicon nanoparticles. It can be used to specifically control the direction, color, and polarization of light. This novel technology may be used in transparent screens or augmented reality. The results are reported in "Advanced Materials". Photonics, the science of generating, spreading, and detecting light, is considered the major driver in developing technologies for the 21^st century.