Synthesis of Conductive Optical Lenses for the Observation of Variable Refractive Indices

Overview

The application of electrical energy and induction of changes to refractive indices of different mediums could drastically impact the development of modern optical science. To explore the properties of these variations, two lenses of different natures have been synthesized. First, a simple 50 mm diameter glass plano-convex lens was coated in a tin oxide layer, by spraying a solution of methanol and tin(IV) chloride pentahydrate onto the surface at 600 degrees Celsius. Additionally, an acrylamide -based hydrogel was synthesized to observe the conductivity of a water-based medium. These lenses were tested using a vernier light sensor apparatus, using a green laser light of 532 nm to pass through a conductive medium. Data demonstrates dynamic linear results show ing a strong inverse correlation between the voltage present in the lens, and the lux reading of the light sensor. Testing in hydrogels seemed to be dominated by an internal thermal flux, while the tin oxide coating showed results consistent with the Kerr effect. Across 24-minute trials, increasing from 0 volts to 15 in 5-volt intervals, Lens 2, yielded a correlation coefficient of -0.926, and Lens 4 yielded a correlation coefficient of -0.924, both denoting a strong relationship that describes the lens displaying a variable refractive index. Further research in this topic will open the door to more developed optical technologies, involving more dynamic refractive properties that allow for modularity in controlling the movement and position of light, impacting both the field of optics and consumer industry.

Competition history

• JSHS 2024 Category not listed

Resources

• National JSHS abstract book ↗

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