Quantum dots are emerging as a cost-effective materials system for both emitting and detecting mid-infrared light. Philippe Guyot-Sionnest’s group at the University of Chicago is working on developing this technology, and their latest paper describes a quantum-dot-based light source that is as efficient as current commercial devices.
Read MoreFor more than 50 years, the Apollo-era Laser Ranging Retroreflector experiment helped scientists track the moon’s orbit and distance from Earth. The efficiency of the moon-based reflectors decreased over time, though, so NASA scientists looked to reflect light from a spacecraft-based reflector instead—a feat they recently achieved for the first time.
Read MoreMid-infrared spectroscopy is an important tool for nondestructive analysis of molecules, but it cannot analyze nanometric volumes very well. One way to improve nanometric analysis is through a technique called nanofocusing, and researchers in Spain and Russia proposed an improved nanofocusing technique using graphene.
Read MoreSince 2000, infrared photodetector technology has experienced rapid development—particularly quantum-based detectors. Now, researchers in Russia, Japan, and the United States developed a model for a detector that could operate in the far-infrared and even terahertz spectral ranges.
Read MoreAthletic apparel maker Under Armor unveiled a bioceramic-laden line of sleepwear at CES 2017, touting the line’s endorsement by famed football player Tom Brady.
Read MoreDriven by the mission to develop a more practical, lower-cost solution to infrared vision technology, researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology are turning to a trendy material: graphene.
Read MoreStanford researchers have developed a multilayered material that reflects visible and infrared light away from buildings, a finding that they hope will someday heat up deep space and cool down rooftops.
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