The function of adjustable pinholes in laser scanning microscopes can be realised with silicon components. In the production process, the properties of the silicon single crystal are used to create atomically sharp-edged apertures.
The desired geometry depends on the orientation direction of the single crystal; it is achieved with the help of photolithography and special etching techniques.
In this way, diffraction effects and light losses in the beam path can be minimised.
The elimination of stray light is also possible. For this purpose, additional absorption or anti-reflective layers can be applied, which can be adapted to the wavelength ranges and angles of incidence of the light.
Supracon AG offers customised silicon components and works with cooperation partners on issues relating to special layer systems.
