Spektrum Spezial - Neue Materialien

In recent years, the construction of materials with desired electronic, optical or chemical properties has become increasingly successful. Findings from basic scientific research have contributed to this, as have new laboratory techniques and computer simulations. Sometimes, on the way to the targeted manipulation of radiation and atoms, an inspiring look at models in nature helps, for example at the amazing colour effects in the nanoscale shell of insects. In other cases, the substances acquire complex structures or unique features that do not occur anywhere else - for example, even experts long considered it impossible to send waves literally around obstacles. Admittedly, many components have only worked on a laboratory scale so far. But what is feasible gradually seems to be limited only by imagination and experimental skill.