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Sep 18, 2024

An unprecedented feat: Printing 3D photonic crystals that completely block light

Posted by in category: materials

Photonic crystals are materials with repeating internal structures that interact with light in unique ways. We can find natural examples in opals and the vibrant colored shells of some insects. Even though these crystals are made of transparent materials, they exhibit a “photonic bandgap” that blocks light at certain wavelengths and directions.

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