Nanotubes enable high resolution holograms
1 min read
Scientists from Cambridge University's Centre of Molecular Materials for Photonics and Electronics (CMMPE) have generated holograms from carbon nanotubes, a development which they say could lead to sharper holograms with a larger field of view.
"Smaller pixels allow the diffraction of light at larger angles – increasing the field of view. Essentially, the smaller the pixel, the higher the resolution of the hologram," said Dr Haider Butt from CMMPE. "We used carbon nanotubes as diffractive elements – or pixels – to produce high resolution and wide field of view holograms."
The researchers calculated a placement pattern that expressed the name CAMBRIDGE using various colours of laser light – all scattered from the nanoscale structures.
Dr Butt noted the holograms are not only of high resolution, but are also sensitive to changes in material and incoming light. "A new class of highly sensitive holographic sensors can be developed that could sense distance, motion, tilt, temperature and density of biological materials," he said.
The researchers are now looking to find a less expensive alternative to nanotubes, which are said to be financially prohibitive. Among the candidates are zinc oxide nanowires.
The team is also investigating movement in the projections. Currently, only static holograms can be rendered, but Dr Butt and his team will look at techniques such as combining these pixels with liquid crystals to create fluid displays – possibly leading to changeable pictures and even high quality holographic video.
