New Method of Nano-3D Printing Revolutionizes the Industry
Nano-3D printing has long been hailed as a transformative technology, capable of creating intricate micro components with nano-scale features. However, there have been limitations that hindered its full potential. Until now.
Researchers have recently unveiled a groundbreaking method that not only addresses these limitations but also offers unprecedented speed and precision in nanomanufacturing. This new technique, called acousto-optic scanning with spatial-switching multispots (AOSS), has the potential to revolutionize industries worldwide.
Traditionally, the standard technology used in nano-3D printing is Multiphoton Lithography (MPL). While MPL has been successful in the world of micro-optics, photonic crystals, and metamaterials, it often falls short in terms of high throughput, design freedom, accuracy, and material versatility. The primary issue is the slow printing speed.
The genius of the AOSS method lies in its two-fold approach to solving this speed gap. First, it replaces traditional inertial mechanical scanning with acousto-optic scanning, significantly ramping up the laser scanning speed. This alone is a major breakthrough. But the method doesn’t stop there.
The AOSS method also incorporates a spatial optical switch, allowing for beams with different scanning angles to be activated or deactivated. This means that the high resolution is no longer bound by the usual temporal optical switching frequency. The result? A mind-bogglingly swift single-focus 3D printing rate of 9,500,000 voxels per second.
But that’s not all. By utilizing parallel scanning, an eight-foci MPL system records a print rate of 76,000,000 voxels per second, outperforming even the best MPL methods available today. This remarkable increase in speed has the potential to change the game for industries relying on 3D nano-structures.
The AOSS method’s ability to combine the best of both scanning and projection MPL methods is no small feat. This is not just an incremental improvement; it’s a leap forward. In fact, research testing has shown that the AOSS method is a staggering 10 times faster than previous MPL technologies.
With its elevated speed and enhanced design freedom, it’s easy to imagine AOSS becoming the go-to technology for producing intricate 3D micro and nanostructures. It could pave the way for innovations in metamaterials, micro-optics, micromechanical devices, and potentially even tissue engineering scaffolds.
It’s important to note, however, that at this stage, AOSS is still a research project. It will have to go through a commercialization process before it becomes usable in the industry. But the potential is undeniable.
The unveiling of the AOSS method is a promising development in the field of nano-3D printing. Its speed and precision could unlock new possibilities and propel industries forward. We eagerly await further updates on its progress and potential applications.
(Source: Via IOP Science)
“Why did the 3D printer go to therapy? Because it had too many layers of unresolved issues!”
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