Metastructures

We specialize in the production of the smallest structures on large substrates. Thanks to state-of-the-art electron beam technology with pattern projection, we produce a wide variety of structures in the sub-wavelength range on substrates with a diameter of up to 300 mm. Whether you need many smaller areas for subsequent separation or a closed, large-area structure, we offer customized solutions that are perfectly tailored to your requirements. Benefit from our comprehensive process chain and our expertise in precision manufacturing.

Your partner for maximum precision on substrates up to 300 mm in diameter

Contact us and we will find a solution that is possible for you and our production. We look forward to new challenges and are constantly expanding our portfolio.

 

Our Services and Competencies

Beam splitter

Beam splitters generate dot patterns that are required in various applications such as calibration or face recognition. Different structures are used - from rectangular dot arrangements to random distributions. We offer solutions that are precisely tailored to your requirements and can implement continuous or binary structures as needed. Let us advise you individually and you will receive exactly what you need for your project from the replication master, demonstrator or small series.

Mosaic-like pattern. Vertical gray stripes run from left to right. Within them, you can see small square shapes arranged horizontally as lines.
© Fraunhofer IOF
SEM image of a binary beam splitter structure

Structured anti-reflective coating

A series of bottle-shaped figures arranged horizontally. In the background, you can see that the pattern continues. Everything is depicted in black and white.
© Fraunhofer IOF
SEM image of an AR structure in diamond

For broadband antireflection coatings in the wavelength range 6.5 to 100 µm, the use of classic coating systems is no longer possible. However, with structured surfaces in synthetic diamond, which are inspired by moth-eye structures, efficient antireflection coating can still be achieved.

 

Further Information: Annual Report 2024, page 20-21 (Forum)

Meta Master

Fraunhofer IOF offers the world's largest meta-optics with a diameter of 300 mm. This is based on nanostructures that enable precise light guidance. This replaces conventional optical components with highly developed, nanostructured materials that act as an effective medium. This opens up a wide range of possibilities in light manipulation, ideal for highly specialized and innovative applications in research and industry.

A large circle with rainbow-colored stripes. In the middle, the circle appears to be curved in the form of a vertical stripe. At the top, there is a small square representing a zoom-in, and you can see that the edge is depicted in a gold tone with the Fraunhofer IOF logo on it. To the left of the circle, a one-euro coin is shown for size comparison.
© Fraunhofer IOF
The first metasurface with a diameter of 30 cm was realized at the Fraunhofer IOF (for comparison, a one-euro coin).
A black-and-white image. Several cylinder-like shapes can be seen on a gray background. On the far left are several rows of shapes close together, next to them are the same shapes, only slightly further apart, and on the far right you can see smaller shapes (thinner in diameter) and also spaced further apart
© Fraunhofer IOF
Electron beam microscope image of the meta grating. The grating consists of a lateral sequence of customized nano structures.

Meta Lenses

Fraunhofer IOF uses electron beam lithography to produce high-precision nanostructures for metal lenses. This technology enables the production of complex phase profiles with the highest resolution - ideal for meta-optics in the visible and near-infrared spectral range. These high-performance metal lenses are used in imaging, sensor and quantum technologies.

Several column-like shapes arranged next to each other in a grid pattern. On the left, the columns are quite wide in diameter; on the right, they are quite thin in diameter. The transition from thick to thin is abrupt.
© Fraunhofer IOF
SEM image of a meta lens made of columns
A surface with many small holes visible. The holes are arranged in a circle, with some closer together than others, creating the illusion that there are many different circles within each other, as this makes some areas appear darker than others. It starts with a light circle in the middle and then continues alternately.
© Fraunhofer IOF
SEM image of a meta lens made of holes
Many rods protrude from a surface. They have a pill-shaped base. The rods are arranged in rows. From row to row, they are always rotated slightly further clockwise.
© Fraunhofer IOF
SEM image of polarisation-sensitive structures
 

Your Benefits in Working with Us

 

We offer you comprehensive support from the design phase through to production. With a wide range of manufacturing technologies, we can advise you individually to find the optimum solution for your product.

Our Research Strength

© Fraunhofer IOF

Do you have any questions about our services? We will be happy to talk to you!

In a personal meeting, we will advise you on our (individual) range of services and our core competencies. Get in touch with us.

Are you interested in a cooperation? Get in touch with us!

We develop special and visionary solutions - tailored to the needs and wishes of our customers. Let's talk about your idea(s).

 

Would you like to work with us?
Then send us your application!

We are always on the lookout for creative minds and committed people who will work with us to develop innovative solutions with light. Visit our job portal or send us an unsolicited application: