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Redesigned high-NA lithography optical system aims to revolutionize semiconductor chipmaking

A redesigned high-NA EUV lithography optical system has been proposed, which could enable the manufacture of smaller computer chips at lower cost than current methods. The new design eliminates troublesome optical effects, enhances resolution, and should be much cheaper to produce.

SourceOkinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate University·JournalJournal of Micro/Nanopatterning Materials and Metrology·DateJun 17, 2026

The 'thinner yet tougher' paradox: A two-sided upgrade for flexible microchips

A new manufacturing approach enables the creation of working transistors on both sides of flexible microchips, doubling computing density. The technique uses a liquid bath to detach and float ultra-thin silicon membranes, allowing for precise fabrication without harsh adhesives.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateApr 13, 2026
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

AI challenges lithography and provides solutions

The semiconductor industry is shifting from compute to memory as ultra-large AI models demand higher performing chips. SK hynix is increasing bandwidth by a factor of 1.5x every two years, while GlobalFoundries uses AI to improve process control and manage diverse manufacturing processes.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·DateFeb 25, 2026

Microscopic mirrors for future quantum networks

The Harvard team developed a new microfabrication method to produce high-performance, curved optical mirrors with extremely smooth surfaces. The mirrors can control light at near-infrared wavelengths, enabling fast and efficient quantum networking.

SourceHarvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences·JournalOptica·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 19, 2026

Chemistry-powered “breathing” membrane opens and closes tiny pores on its own

Researchers at The University of Osaka developed a solid-state analogue that enables the formation of subnanometer pores approaching biological ion-channel dimensions. The team demonstrated the opening and closing process hundreds of times, with spikes in current consistent with biological channels.

SourceThe University of Osaka·JournalNature Communications·TypeExperimental study·DateFeb 18, 2026

When light teaches materials to self-organize: Writing nature-like 3D nanowrinkles

Scientists create natural surfaces with 3D nanowrinkles that control light, liquids, and living cells. The method uses laser polarization to guide the material's organization, enabling precise control over wrinkle formation and applications in bio-inspired surfaces and sensors.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateJan 5, 2026
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

National Academy of Inventors to induct Jay Guo

L. Jay Guo, University of Michigan professor, recognized for scalable nanopatterning technology enabling next-gen flexible electronics and structural color applications. His work has attracted interest from major companies like Samsung and Toyota.

SourceUniversity of Michigan·DateDec 11, 2025

Scientists use single-step laser ablation to fabricate ultra-uniform structures smaller than 50 nanometers

Researchers at Sun Yat-sen University create a new method for fabricating ultra-uniform surface structures with features as small as 46 nanometers. The technique uses a carefully tuned femtosecond laser under water immersion, overcoming the challenge of creating uniform nanostructures smaller than 100 nanometers.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateOct 16, 2025
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Control the world's toughest creatures

Scientists successfully fabricated micron-scale metal patterns on living tardigrades, enabling controlled movement through magnetic fields. This breakthrough opens doors for micro/nanofabrication of living organisms and bio-inorganic hybrid systems.

SourceScience China Press·JournalScience Bulletin·TypeExperimental study·DateApr 21, 2025

Metalenses harness AI for superior performance

Researchers have developed a deep-learning-powered metalens imaging system that overcomes limitations of traditional metalenses. The system pairs a mass-produced metalens with an image restoration framework driven by AI to achieve aberration-free, full-color images while maintaining compact form factor.

SourceSPIE--International Society for Optics and Photonics·JournalAdvanced Photonics·DateNov 15, 2024

Breakthrough in nanostructure fabrication: Laser direct writing on Au nano-film

Researchers successfully fabricate subwavelength nanostructures on Au nanofilm using laser direct-writing system, achieving minimum linewidth of 83.6 nm and repeatable linewidth of approximately 167.8 nm. The mechanism involves melting of the Au nanofilm due to locally excited surface plasmon polaritons.

SourceHigher Education Press·JournalEngineering·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 4, 2024
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Researchers hacked a 3D printer to speed up fabrication of bioelectronics

A research team at KTH Royal Institute of Technology developed a simple technique for fabricating electrochemical transistors using standard 3D microprinters, enabling fast prototyping and scaling of bioelectronic devices. The method replaces time-consuming processes requiring expensive cleanroom environments.

SourceKTH, Royal Institute of Technology·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 26, 2024

Tactile lithophane development makes hard scientific data available to students with blindness

A Baylor University chemistry professors develop a codex using lithophane, converting images from scientific textbooks into tactile formats for students with blindness. The study found that students with blindness can accurately describe, recall and distinguish high-resolution data and imagery at an average accuracy of 88%.

SourceBaylor University·JournalScience Advances·TypeObservational study·DateJan 10, 2024

The little things matter: Chemists develop new sensor for microvolume pH detection

Researchers at Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University have developed a sensitive and robust pH sensor that can detect pH variation in just a few microliters of samples. The new sensor uses novel materials and methods to overcome the current method's limitations, which are not sensitive enough or fragile for commercial-scale use.

SourceXi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University·JournalMicrochimica Acta·TypeExperimental study·DateNov 3, 2023

Enlightening insects: Morpho butterfly nanostructure inspires technology for bright, balanced lighting

Researchers at Osaka University developed a water-repelling nanostructured light diffuser that surpasses the functionality of other common diffusers. The diffuser uses randomly arranged self-cleaning nanopatterns to produce high transmittance and wide angular spread, making it useful for visual displays and energy-saving windows.

SourceOsaka University·JournalAdvanced Optical Materials·TypeExperimental study·DateOct 12, 2023
Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C)

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation, USB-C) provide clear calls and strong noise reduction for interviews, conferences, and noisy field environments.

Laser-induced monolayer graphene nanoprocessing

Researchers at Tohoku University have developed a technique to micro/nanofabricate silicon nitride thin devices using a femtosecond laser. The method enables precise machining and contaminant removal, opening doors for non-destructive cleaning of high-purity graphene. By applying this method to an ultra-thin atomic layer of graphene, t...

SourceTohoku University·JournalNano Letters·DateMay 26, 2023

World's first mass production of metalenses for visible wavelengths

A POSTECH research team has successfully mass-produced metalenses for visible light, overcoming previous limitations in fabrication and efficiency. By combining photolithography and nanoimprint lithography, the team achieved high-speed production of high-performance lenses with improved efficiency up to 90%.

SourcePohang University of Science & Technology (POSTECH)·JournalNature Materials·DateMay 8, 2023

Fiber sensing scientists invent 3D printed fiber microprobe for measuring in vivo biomechanical properties of tissue and even single cell

Researchers at Shenzhen University have developed a compact fiber optical nanomechanical probe (FONP) to measure in vivo biomechanical properties of tissue and even single cells. The high-precision mechanical sensing system enables accurate measurements with spring constants as low as 2.1 nanonewtons.

SourceInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·JournalInternational Journal of Extreme Manufacturing·DateFeb 10, 2023

New spin control method brings billion-qubit quantum chips closer

Engineers at Diraq and UNSW Sydney discovered a new way to precisely control single electrons in quantum dots using electric fields, which is less bulky and requires fewer parts. This breakthrough technique can help achieve the goal of fabricating billions of qubits on a single chip for commercial production.

SourceWildfire Communications·JournalNature Nanotechnology·TypeExperimental study·DateJan 12, 2023
Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars

Nikon Monarch 5 8x42 Binoculars deliver bright, sharp views for wildlife surveys, eclipse chases, and quick star-field scans at dark sites.

Towards higher nanopatterning resolution with molecules that fill nanogaps better

A research group from Tokyo University of Science has discovered molecular features that govern the filling process at nanoscales, enabling finer resolutions in ultraviolet nanoimprint lithography. The findings provide valuable insights for guiding the selection and design of optimized resists for sub-10 nm resolution.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalNanomaterials·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateAug 8, 2022

Highly conductive and elastic nanomembrane for skin electronics

Researchers at IBS developed a novel composite material consisting of metal nanowires within an ultrathin rubber film. The float assembly method creates a monolayer of nanowires in the rubber film, resulting in excellent physical properties such as high stretchability and metal-like conductivity.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalScience·TypeExperimental study·DateAug 26, 2021

Water predictions: Telling when a nanolithography mold will break through droplets

Researchers from Tokyo University of Science developed a novel strategy to predict the lifetime of replica molds used in UV-NIL by analyzing changes in the contact angle of water on the mold surface. The method uses commercial camera-based systems and can accurately predict when a mold will break, reducing costs associated with UV-NIL.

SourceTokyo University of Science·JournalNanomaterials·DateNov 9, 2020
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

Flexible and recyclable optoelectronics move a step closer

Researchers have demonstrated a new type of flexible, recyclable electrode that could replace traditional transparent conductive oxides in creating low-cost solar cells, computer displays, smartphone touch screens, and smart windows. The electrodes boasted high transmittance, low sheet resistance, and outstanding flexural endurance.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence in Exciton Science·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateJun 10, 2020

Imprinted color patterns

Chinese researchers create an azopolymer that allows light-induced nanoimprinting at room temperature, overcoming heat-dependent issues in traditional photolithography. The technique enables the creation of structurally colored surfaces and has potential applications in nanofabrication and electronics industry.

SourceWiley·JournalAngewandte Chemie International Edition·DateJan 15, 2020
Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4)

Apple iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) runs demanding GIS, imaging, and annotation workflows on the go for surveys, briefings, and lab notebooks.

Graphene 'sandwich' key to new electronics

Researchers from Graphene Flagship partner DTU developed a graphene 'sandwich' by encasing graphene with insulating hexagonal boron nitride, allowing them to achieve higher electrical currents and control the material's properties. This breakthrough enables the creation of nano-electronics with small dimensions.

SourceGraphene Flagship·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateFeb 19, 2019

Tackling the European market of nanoimprint lithography

The EU nanoimprint lithography market is evolving rapidly, with numerous applications across industries. Key findings include the development of production tools and materials, and the potential up-scaling of nanoimprinting to large areas and high-throughput.

SourceCatalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2)·DateApr 20, 2012

Berkeley Lab researchers ink nanostructures with tiny 'soldering iron'

Researchers at Berkeley Lab have developed a new technique for fabricating nanoscale structures by controlling the temperature of a tiny soldering iron. This method, called thermal dip-pen nanolithography, allows for precise control over feature size and shape on various substrates.

SourceDOE/Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateNov 7, 2011
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Exploring the market for 3-D nanopatterning techniques

The NAPANIL project explores the potential of 3D nanoimprinting techniques in various applications, including optics, life sciences, and industry. The project aims to bridge the gap between basic research and industrial uptake, with a focus on cost-efficient products and novel functionalities.

SourceCatalan Institute of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology (ICN2)·DateMay 20, 2011

Nanoimprint lithography NSF grant awarded to micro device lab at Stevens

Stevens Institute of Technology has received an NSF grant to acquire a Nanoimprint Lithography System, enhancing its research and educational capabilities in nanotechnology. The new equipment will support high-throughput nanoscale patterning and hands-on experience for students in the Nanotechnology Graduate Program.

SourceStevens Institute of Technology·DateNov 3, 2010

Thermochemical nanolithography now allows multiple chemicals on a chip

Scientists at Georgia Tech have developed Thermochemical Nanolithography, enabling the creation of high-resolution patterns of multiple chemicals on a single chip. The technique uses heated AFM probe tips to induce local chemical reactions, allowing for stable and non-reactive patterns that can be stored for weeks.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalAdvanced Functional Materials·DateDec 16, 2009
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Making a good impression: Nanoimprint lithography tests at NIST

Researchers at NIST have demonstrated that nanoimprint lithography can accurately stamp delicate insulating structures on advanced microchips without damaging them. The process also increases the population of small pores, improving performance and reducing the risk of short circuits.

SourceNational Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)·JournalAdvanced Materials·DateApr 29, 2008

Drawing nanoscale features the fast and easy way

Scientists at Georgia Tech have developed a new technique for nanolithography that is extremely fast and capable of being used in various environments. The thermochemical nanolithography technique uses an atomic force microscope to heat a silicon tip, inducing a chemical reaction that transforms the film's surface.

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalNano Letters·DateSep 10, 2007

Princeton engineers develop low-cost recipe for patterning microchips

Researchers at Princeton University have invented a new process called fracture-induced structuring that enables the self-formation of periodic lines, or gratings, separated by as few as 60 nanometers. This technique uses a thin polymer film and is simpler and faster than traditional methods, making it economically feasible for large-s...

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNature Nanotechnology·DateSep 2, 2007

Research removes major obstacle from mass production of tiny circuits

A Princeton-led team has developed a method to eliminate tiny air bubbles that form during the mass production of smaller, cheaper microchips. This breakthrough in nanoimprint lithography will enable the creation of more efficient and cost-effective computer chips, with features as small as a billionth of a meter.

SourcePrinceton University, Engineering School·JournalNanotechnology·DateJan 17, 2007

Researchers develop detailed design rules for nanoimprint lithography processing

A three-year study by Georgia Institute of Technology and Sandia National Laboratories provides a roadmap for next-generation micron- and nanometer-scale high-resolution imprint manufacturing. The research develops manufacturing design rules that will give future users a predictive tool kit to know what to expect over a broad range of ...

SourceGeorgia Institute of Technology·JournalJournal of Micromechanics and Microengineering·DateApr 24, 2006
Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor

Aranet4 Home CO2 Monitor tracks ventilation quality in labs, classrooms, and conference rooms with long battery life and clear e-ink readouts.

Molecular scale resolution achieved in polymer nanoimprinting technique

Scientists have successfully reached a critical size regime, demonstrating reliable patterning at the 2 nanometer scale. The work explores the fundamental resolution limits of polymer nanoimprint lithography and its potential applications in fields such as semiconductor device manufacturing and biotechnology.

SourceUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, News Bureau·JournalNano Letters·DateJan 21, 2005