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Title
Beyond Conventional Boundaries: Advancing Glass Micro-Optics with Cutting-Edge Additive Manufacturing
Bio
Dr. Zhihan Hong is currently a Postdoctoral Research Associate at the Wyant College of Optical Sciences, University of Arizona. His work primarily explores the additive manufacturing of freeform glass optics, specifically focusing on developing optical systems for biomedical imaging and photonics. Dr. Hong earned his Ph.D. in Optical Sciences from the same institution, under the guidance of Prof. Rongguang Liang. His doctoral research earned him the Jack Jewell Endowed Research Award for Extreme Optics in 2022. Additionally, his innovative work on 3D printing glass optics was spotlighted by both PHOTONICS SPECTRA and LASER FOCUS WORLD, being honored with the title of Top 2022 Editor’s Choice in LASER FOCUS WORLD. During his postdoctoral tenure, Dr. Hong has focused on pioneering new printing processes and materials for additive manufacturing. His work encompasses a broad spectrum of materials such as inorganic glass, polymers, infrared plastics, multi-refractive index glass, and ceramics, all tailored for optical applications. Additionally, he has applied these advancements to the field of biomedical imaging, illustrating the wide-ranging potential of his research.
Abstract
Additive manufacturing, or 3D printing, is transforming the optics industry by turning previously unattainable, highly optimized optical components into a reality. At the forefront of this innovation is the two-photon polymerization (TPP) technique, which facilitates the creation of precise, complex micro-optical elements from polymers. Although organic polymers are valued for their lightweight properties and straightforward photo-curing process, they do not match glass in essential qualities such as optical clarity, durability, and resistance to temperature changes and chemicals. Consequently, developing a new TPP technique for precise 3D printing of glass micro-optics represents a crucial and innovative leap forward in modern optical manufacturing, enabling applications that were previously unattainable. In this presentation, I will explore our latest advancements in TPP printing techniques and materials aimed at producing glass micro-optics. These developments are characterized by their non-sintering process, minimal shrinkage, and enhanced capabilities. I will highlight our new materials and printing techniques through examples such as multi-lens objectives and endoscopes, variable zoom lens systems, spectrometers, and bio-inspired snapshot hyperspectral imaging systems, underscoring the potential for further innovation in the field of glass micro-optics.