Nanomaterial printing process makes flexible AR devices a reality

The new technology prints in a single step process and dramatically reduces production costs and time

Spotted: A recently developed, thin, moldable nanomaterial produced via a new nano-printing process has the potential to bring augmented, mixed and virtual reality to the masses. The discovery was a joint creation by a research team consisting of Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) and Korea University scientists.

Metamaterials are artificial assemblages of atoms that are smaller than the wavelengths of light. Current construction techniques are slow and expensive, and what the team created is a new composite material that is freely moulded. Add to the development a significant advance in printing technology, and invisibility cloaks could become commercially available.

The single-step printing process allows nanomaterials to be produced for just fractions of current costs. The thinness of the team’s composite makes it ideal for use on and within curved and flexible devices such as capes, eyeglasses and future wearables. Continued research in this area is focusing on commercial production and additional uses.

Other ways that Springwise has spotted printing processes and materials shaping the future of industries include a rocket engine 3D-printed as a single piece of metal and a tyre that repairs itself on-the-go.

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