#Finland #Espoo #Photonics #metalenses #Gas Measurement

Future Innovations in Measurement Technologies

In a significant advancement in the fields of industrial and medical diagnostics, a groundbreaking project led by VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland is paving the way for compact spectral imaging and gas measurement technologies utilizing innovative photonics. This project has made strides in developing miniature devices that can identify various substances by harnessing the power of light, particularly through the use of metalenses. The project, known as EPheS (Efficient Photonics for Sustainable Imaging and Sensing), is set to redefine measurement technologies and facilitate a transition towards sustainability in various industries.

A New Era of Spectral Imaging

The EPheS project commenced in early 2025 and is set to run for three years, with the aim of creating tunable optical filters and systems that can be applied across a broad range of fields. These applications span from environmental monitoring, hazardous gas detection, and green energy initiatives, to vital sectors like food and pharmaceutical safety as well as medical diagnostics. Aapo Varpula, the project coordinator and Research Team Leader at VTT, emphasizes the necessity of these technological advancements, stating, "Novel spectral imaging and gas measurement technologies are essential for creating a sustainable circular economy. They can reduce the carbon footprint of industries while enhancing their positive environmental impact."

Collaboration for Progress

The collaborative effort involves several pioneering companies, including Applied Materials, Vaisala, Gasera, and Schott Primoceler, alongside two research institutes. This robust partnership brings together a unique combination of expertise in materials science, metaoptics, MEMS (micro-electromechanical systems), and integrated optical systems. Currently, the team is in the design phase, with plans to begin manufacturing components in VTT's cleanroom for 200 mm wafers around the turn of the year. Varpula noted, "This is an excellent opportunity for VTT to develop novel infrared spectral technologies and showcase them in new applications."

The Breakthrough with Metalenses

What sets this project apart is its emphasis on integrating metalenses and MEMS-based adjustable infrared filters into compact systems. Metalenses are flat, nanostructured optics that can replace traditional lenses, resulting in lighter and more cost-effective systems that utilize readily available and non-toxic materials. Conventional infrared materials tend to be expensive and scarce, thus the shift towards silicon—a widely available and ecologically sound choice—demonstrates a commitment to sustainability.

Advanced Detection Methods

By employing photonics technologies, the project aims to enable real-time analysis of gases and materials with high sensitivity. These novel gases and material detection methods, including photoacoustics and infrared spectroscopy, promise greater accuracy without interference from other substances. For instance, the photoacoustic technique involves collecting gas samples and irradiating them with infrared light. The generated audio signals upon absorption of the light can be uniquely tied to specific gases based on the tuned wavelengths.

Creating a National Competence Cluster

As part of the Chip Zero ecosystem, the EPheS project is set to not only boost photonics expertise but also establish a national competence cluster in Finland. The integration of atomic layer deposition technology has been crucial for achieving the required precision at the nanoscale, a foundation for breakthroughs in spectral imaging and gas measurement. Jesse Kalliomäki from Applied Materials expressed pride in being part of this collaborative effort, which is strictly focused on developing sustainable and high-performance solutions for diverse applications like environmental monitoring and industrial automation.

A Vision for the Future

As the EPheS project continues to make progress over its three-year timeline, its potential to impact several industries significantly becomes increasingly evident. With an ambitious budget of EUR 4.2 million, this initiative melds research and technological innovation towards sustainable practices, addressing pressing environmental challenges with cutting-edge solutions.

In summary, the EPheS project heralds a new era in measurement technologies. By focusing on lightweight, compact systems fueled by advances in photonics, it promises to facilitate a transition towards sustainability while ensuring high-performance capabilities across various applications. The collaboration among leading companies and research institutions in Finland sets a global standard for innovation in spectral imaging and gas sensing technologies.