Scientists Create Ultra-Efficient Light Traps Using Highway Design

What Happened CU Boulder researchers have engineered what they call microscopic “racetracks” - optical resonators that trap light using smooth, curved pathways inspired by highway design. These devices are made from chalcogenide glass and fabricated with sub-nanometer precision, achieving performance levels that rank among the best in their class. The key innovation lies in the geometry: instead of using sharp corners that cause energy loss when light bounces around, the team designed smooth curves that minimize energy dissipation.