Scientists Develop Ultra-Sensitive Nanoscale Force Sensors

New photon-avalanching nanocrystals enable remote, multiscale force measurements with unprecedented sensitivity and range.

Researchers at Columbia Engineering and Berkeley National Lab have created nanosensors capable of measuring forces ranging from piconewtons to micronewtons with 100 times greater sensitivity than previous technologies.
The nanosensors utilize photon-avalanching nanocrystals that change color or intensity when subjected to mechanical forces, enabling remote, wire-free readouts.
These sensors operate using infrared light, making them biocompatible and capable of penetrating deeply into biological and technological systems for monitoring and diagnostics.
Applications span diverse fields, including cellular biophysics, robotics, medicine, energy systems, and space exploration, with potential to detect malfunctions or failures early.
Future advancements aim to incorporate self-calibrating functionality and explore impactful use cases, such as studying developing embryos or nanoelectromechanical systems.