Magnetically deformable liquid mirrors from surface films of silver nanoparticles

Abstract

A unique optical element: A magnetically deformable mirror composed of a reflective monolayer of silver nanoparticles deposited at the surface of a ferrofluid is presented (see picture). Recent advances in the optimization of the chemical components of the mirror to achieve better reflectivity, deformability and long-term stability are described. The mirror has clearly passed the proof-of-concept stage, but challenges still remain. © 2010 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH& Co. KGaA, Weinheim.