Australian scientists create world's thinnest lens

Zee Media Bureau

Melbourne: A team of Australian researchers have created the world's thinnest lens which they claim is 2,000 times thinner than human hair. A team of scientists led by Yuerui 'Larry' Lu from Australian National University (ANU) claim that the lens is 6.3 nanometrres in size as compared to the previous smallest lens which was 50 nanometres thick.

Researchers say that the lens could have revolutionary applications in the fields of science, technology and health and it could also be used to make bendable computer screens.

While the the new lens has already been experimented by technology companies with prototype TV and computer screens that can be rolled up or folded, the mass production at cheaper price is yet to be devised. 

"This type of material is the perfect candidate for future flexible displays," Lu said. 
 

"This type of material is the perfect candidate for future flexible displays," Lu said. 

Another application of the Australian-made lens could be arrays of micro-lenses that mimic the compound eyes of insects. 

Lu who led the Nano-Electro-Mechanical System (NEMS) Laboratory in ANU Research School of Engineering, said a crystal called molybdenum disulphide was the special ingredient. 

Researchers shaved off layers of the crystal atom by atom in a bid to create an object with 

the domed shape of a lens and the delicate operation used an ion beam, something commonly used in electronics manufacturing. 

At one stage in the process, scientists used sticky tape to peel off a sliver of crystal from which they crafted the final product. 

Lu said manipulating the flow of light at an atomic scale could lead to unprecedented miniaturisation in the making of cameras. 

With PTI inputs