Science TechnologyMonday, 22 June 2026·The Hindu - Science
Laser-induced 1 THz strain waves in platinum-copper superlattices: a new step for spintronics and thermoacoustic materials
Researchers from France, Germany and Sweden used laser pulses to create 1 THz coherent strain waves in a platinum-copper superlattice, pointing to scalable thermoacoustic materials.
Key highlights
Direct fact
In June 2026, a Nature Communications study by researchers from France, Germany and Sweden reported that laser pulses created coherent strain waves at 1 THz in a platinum-copper superlattice.
Key specifics
- The superlattice used alternating layers of platinum and copper, each only a few nanometres thick.
- The team measured a strain amplitude of 1%, meaning the atoms moved about 1% from their original positions.
- Ultrafast X-ray diffraction at European XFEL was used to observe the atomic motion in real time.
- The study found electron pressure, not heat, as the main driver of the vibration in the platinum layers.
- The work links to spintronics and thermoacoustic metamaterials, and the materials can be made by sputtering.
Exam lens
Science and technology question type: nanomaterials, laser physics, spintronics; key facts: 1 THz, 1% strain, platinum-copper superlattice, European XFEL, sputtering. TNPSC may ask the mechanism that kicked atoms into motion and the application area.