Example of a half capillary — a pointed funnel Smooth mirrors for X-rays structure with a concave (hollow) design. (Image: In the Nano-Argovia project CAPOFOX, an interdisciplinary team PSI) has been working on the further development of lithographic methods for the production of micro-optical components made from polymers. These so-called capillary optics are elongated, cylindrical mirrors that focus light on a point by re昀氀ection. As they are intended to be suitable for both ultraviolet and X-rays, the mirrors must have a very low surface roughness. The researchers combined tool-, laser-, design- and materi- al-related aspects in order to develop a method that leads to an elongated three-dimensional structure of the polymers. They initially concentrated on the production of stepless, semi-cylin- drical indentations and on developing the basis for measuring nanoroughness using various methods. Cooperation with: XRnanotech // Paul Scherrer Institute // FHNW School of Life Sciences Project description: https://bit.ly/3ThvoMr “The CAPOFOX project brings together outstanding expertise in the preparation and examination of ultrasmooth surfaces. The chosen methodology is innovative and is also remarkable due to its numerous high-impact future applications. We’re very much looking forward to accompanying and supporting these developments.” Dr. Florian Döring, CEO and founder of XRnanotech SNI Annual Report 2023 35