Scientists Develop World’s Thinnest Lens Using Quantum Effects

Revolutionary Flat Lens, Just Three Atoms Thick, Could Transform Augmented Reality Technology

Researchers from the University of Amsterdam and Stanford University have created the world’s thinnest lens, measuring only three atoms in thickness. This groundbreaking flat lens, made from tungsten disulfide (WS2), could significantly impact future augmented reality glasses.

Traditional lenses work by bending light through curved glass, making objects appear larger or closer. However, this new lens, just 0.6 nanometers thick and half a millimeter wide, achieves the same effect using quantum phenomena.

The lens, described in the journal Nano Letters, uses concentric rings of WS2 with gaps in between, known as a Fresnel lens or zone plate lens. It focuses light through diffraction rather than refraction, focusing red light 1 mm from the lens.

A remarkable feature of this lens is its reliance on quantum effects within WS2. The material efficiently absorbs and re-emits light at specific wavelengths due to excitons—pairs of electrons and positively charged "holes" bound by electrostatic attraction. These excitons enhance the lens's efficiency, especially at lower temperatures.

What sets this lens apart is that while it focuses some light, most light passes through undisturbed. This characteristic makes it ideal for augmented reality glasses, where a clear view is essential, but some light can be used to gather information.

Jorik van de Groep, one of the study’s authors, highlighted the lens's potential: "The lens can be used in applications where the view should not be disturbed, but a small part of the light can be tapped to collect information."

The researchers are now exploring more complex optical coatings that can be electrically adjusted, further enhancing the versatility and applications of this innovative lens.