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Updated: Jun 27, 2026

Polymeric Microneedle Array Fabrication by Photolithography
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GRIN lens and lens array fabrication with diffusion-driven photopolymer.

Chunfang Ye1, Robert R McLeod

  • 1Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Colorado, Boulder, CO 80309, USA. chunfang.ye@colorado.edu

Optics Letters
|November 19, 2008
PubMed
Summary

We present a novel method for fabricating gradient index (GRIN) lenses and arrays using photopolymers and a continuous wave (CW) laser. This technique allows for precise control over optical properties and rapid, on-demand micro-optic printing.

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Area of Science:

  • Optics and Photonics
  • Materials Science
  • Microfabrication

Background:

  • Gradient index (GRIN) lenses offer unique optical properties not achievable with conventional refractive lenses.
  • Existing methods for GRIN lens fabrication can be complex, time-consuming, and lack flexibility for custom designs.
  • Micro-optics are crucial for miniaturized optical systems in various applications.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To develop a novel, rapid, and controllable method for fabricating gradient index (GRIN) lenses and lens arrays.
  • To demonstrate the ability to precisely control the refractive index profile of GRIN lenses.
  • To integrate real-time process monitoring into the fabrication workflow.

Main Methods:

  • Utilizing diffusion-driven photopolymers exposed by a low-power continuous wave (CW) laser.

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  • Controlling the laser beam's size, power, and exposure time to tailor the GRIN lens index profile.
  • Integrating a scanning phase microscopy system for in-situ process monitoring during fabrication.

    • Main Results:

    • Successful fabrication of GRIN lenses and GRIN lens arrays with controllable index profiles.
    • Demonstration of rapid, on-demand printing of arbitrary micro-optic designs.
    • Validation of integrated scanning phase microscopy for accurate process monitoring.

    Conclusions:

    • The presented laser-based photopolymerization method offers a versatile and efficient approach for fabricating custom GRIN micro-optics.
    • The integrated microscopy provides real-time feedback, enhancing process control and reproducibility.
    • This technology enables rapid prototyping and on-demand manufacturing of micro-optical components.