September 13, 2013

Light moves in the right direction



An experimental demonstration of light scattering controlled by silicon nanoparticles augurs well for the development of integrated optical circuits

Optical fibers are now delivering ultrafast internet connections to homes across the world. By replacing electronics-based technologies with architectures that process pulses of light, a similar leap in speed might also be possible for other forms of information handling. To realize this potential, scientists must first develop novel devices that are capable of controlling the flow of light at the nanometer scale.