Researchers Open Future Of Wearables With ‘World’s Thinnest Hologram’

A group of scientists from Australia’s Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) has developed the “world’s thinnest hologram” which would have practical implications for optical imaging, data storage and information security.

The team explains how it managed to break the previous record and achieve holograms a thousand times thinner than a human hair that could be integrated into devices such as smartphones, computers and televisions.

Led by Professor Min Gu, the team’s breakthrough in creating a 25 nm-thick hologram could bring holograms from the realm of science fiction into the reality.

Hologram tech

“Conventional computer-generated holograms are too big for electronic devices but our ultrathin hologram overcomes those size barriers,” Gu said. “Our nano-hologram is also fabricated using a simple and fast direct laser writing system, which makes our design suitable for large-scale uses and mass manufacture.

“Integrating holography into everyday electronics would make screen size irrelevant – a pop-up 3D hologram can display a wealth of data that doesn’t neatly fit on a phone or watch.

“From medical diagnostics to education, data storage, defence and cyber security, 3D holography has the potential to transform a range of industries and this research brings that revolution one critical step closer.”

The team used a “topological insulator material” called Sb2Te3 to reduce the size of holograms by allowing light from laser beams to reflect multiple times over and create the illusion of depth.

The next stage, according to the researchers, is to create a film that can be put on top of an LCD screen to make a 3D holographic display, which would have widespread applications for smartwatches and wearable devices.

Think you know wearable tech? Try our quiz!

Sam Pudwell

Sam Pudwell joined Silicon UK as a reporter in December 2016. As well as being the resident Cloud aficionado, he covers areas such as cyber security, government IT and sports technology, with the aim of going to as many events as possible.

Recent Posts

Craig Wright Sentenced For Contempt Of Court

Suspended prison sentence for Craig Wright for “flagrant breach” of court order, after his false…

2 days ago

El Salvador To Sell Or Discontinue Bitcoin Wallet, After IMF Deal

Cash-strapped south American country agrees to sell or discontinue its national Bitcoin wallet after signing…

2 days ago

UK’s ICO Labels Google ‘Irresponsible’ For Tracking Change

Google's change will allow advertisers to track customers' digital “fingerprints”, but UK data protection watchdog…

2 days ago

EU Publishes iOS Interoperability Plans

European Commission publishes preliminary instructions to Apple on how to open up iOS to rivals,…

3 days ago

Momeni Convicted In Bob Lee Murder

San Francisco jury finds Nima Momeni guilty of second-degree murder of Cash App founder Bob…

3 days ago