Foldable and rollable Functional test before shock freezing In the Nano-Argovia project META-DISPLAYS, researchers were In the Nano-Argovia project FuncEM, researchers have been developing a component for foldable and rollable screens that developing an extension to the cryoWrite system. This system specifically alters and controls the propagation of light. This can be used to flash-freeze tiny quantities of samples — with so-called metasurface phase retarder has tiny structures on its no loss of material — before they are examined using cryo-elec- surface that can effectively control the phases of the electro- tron microscopy. The extension module enables imaging of the magnetic field emitted by the light source. The phase retarder “living” samples using fluorescence and dark-field light micros- must also be color-neutral, allow light to pass through it easily copy immediately before the freezing process. The interdisci- and reduce back reflection. The team has now identified a com- plinary team initially focused on the investigation of thin cilia, bination that achieves high transmission and color neutrality, which also play a crucial role in numerous diseases. The up- and reduces the thickness of the phase retarder, making it suit- stream light microscopic examination provides relevant infor- able for foldable and rollable screens. mation about the functionality of the cilia examined. Cooperation with: Rolic Technologies Ltd // CSEM // Paul Cooperation with: cryoWrite AG // Biozentrum, University Scherrer Institute of Basel // Paul Scherrer Institute Project description: http://bit.ly/3Xw9YtE Project description: http://bit.ly/3K62L0A Influence of cosmic radiation In the Nano-Argovia project CRONOS, an interdisciplinary team of scientists has been investigating the effect of cosmic radiation on power semiconductors designed for high electrical currents and voltages. The team irradiated the power semiconductors with protons in a controlled manner while simultaneously ap- plying an electrical voltage. Electrical and thermal stress tests of the gate oxide layers provided information on how physical processes can lead to failures and support the development of more robust power semiconductors. Cooperation with: SwissSEM GmbH // FHNW School of Engineering // ANAXAM Project description: http://bit.ly/3xfcxpv In the Nano-Argovia project FuncEM, researchers are developing a supple- mentary module for the cryoWrite system. (Image: Biozentrum, University of Basel) “For us, the Nano-Argovia project CRONOS is an ideal opportunity to collaborate with experts in the field of power semiconductors and materials analysis and to benefit from their know-how.” Dr. Arnost Kopta, CTO SwissSEM Technologies AG In the Nano-Argovia project CRONOS, researchers are investigating the ef- “A metasurface device will allow Rolic to strengthen fect of cosmic radiation on power semiconductors. (Image: FHNW) its competitive advantage as a material supplier to the display industry.” Dr. Richard Frantz, head of development, Rolic Technologies Ltd 36 SNI Annual Report 2022