SMRTR Science & EngineeringMar 2, 2026Science Daily

Scientists just turned light into a remote control for crystals

SMRTR summary

NYU scientists developed a breakthrough technique using light as a remote control to guide microscopic particles into forming crystals by adding light-sensitive molecules called photoacids that change particle charges when illuminated. This allows researchers to start crystal growth, dissolve existing crystals, and reshape structures in real-time simply by adjusting light brightness and patterns, potentially enabling programmable materials for advanced displays, sensors, and optical devices.

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