MIPT scientists build lithograph for creating 3D microstructures with 150 nm elements

The Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology has developed a lithograph designed to create three-dimensional microstructures, the elements of which will have dimensions of 150 nm with a resolution of 350 nm.

Image source: Opt Lasers / unsplash.com

The device will allow the creation of small mechanical structures or frames on which artificial biological organs with a given geometry can be grown. When growing bioengineered objects, a frame is first created on which cells are applied, the authors of the project explained. The frame is made of a special biocompatible polymer – the design allows cells to be built for optimal interaction with other cells or proteins. Another possible area of ​​application is the creation of filters for separating some cells from others, for example, healthy from sick. It is assumed that such devices will be mass-produced and will replace similar foreign, mainly German equipment.

The lithograph could help make a breakthrough in photonics. Traditionally, emitters, receivers, and components of photonic circuits were produced using different technologies and materials; now, using polymer optical fiber, all of this can be combined on a single chip. The device can operate in 3D printer mode, using ultrashort laser pulses in the visible range and optically transparent biocompatible polymers. The device can also be used to create phase masks, through which light changes its amplitude-phase characteristics. This will allow encoding information with light, forming holograms and metalenses.

The project is in the final stage of experimental design work. By the end of this month, it will undergo acceptance tests, and in August, the development process will be completed, and a decision will be made on the transfer of the lithograph to serial production. It is expected to be in demand among research centers and companies involved in photonics and biophotonics. It is believed that it will also be useful in the creation of neurointerfaces.