At the moment, it affects visible light but a small amount of tweaking should produce a band gap at a wavelength of 1.5 microns (millionths of a metre).

ECONOMIST: New-age crystals

But, by drilling a series of evenly spaced holes into the wire, Dr Lim has created a periodic structure with a band gap that blocks such light.

ECONOMIST: New-age crystals

Like Samsung electric outlets at airports, Pico de GAP taco trucks, or even Jagermeister band sponsorships, brands are seeking ways to hit the whammy bar and delight consumers with their brand.

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