The SMAL (Super Resolution Microspheres Amplifying Lens) lens family from LIG Nanowise, they delivers a flexible suite of super-resolution lenses, each engineered to adapt to a range of samples and experimental conditions—while consistently achieving sub-80 nm resolution.
SMAL are engineer around the unique properties of microspheres. They can be declined into different types depending on the parameters such as: microspheres size, immersion medium or dry environment, wavelength of illumination.
DRY SMAL is the dependable all-rounder of the group. It offers high-resolution imaging down to 60 nm without the need for immersion, making it an excellent choice for routine inspections and general nanoscale research. Its dry setup simplifies sample preparation, making it ideal for everyday use.
IMMERSION SMAL steps things up by incorporating oil or water immersion to boost numerical aperture, resulting in brighter, sharper images. It is especially well-suited for delicate biological samples or thin polymer films where image clarity and sample preservation are essential.
When a broader view is required, WIDE-FIELD SMAL extends the field of view up to 50 µm without compromising SMAL’s hallmark resolution. This makes it a strong fit for large, flat samples like 2D materials or semiconductor wafers—capturing fine detail and overall structure in a single frame.
MULTI-SPHERE SMAL uses engineered microsphere arrays to push optical resolution even further, enabling sub-100 nm imaging in select configurations. This variant is particularly useful for surface nanostructure analysis and materials research where high-detail surface characterization is key.
For researchers working in the infrared spectrum, IR SMAL brings super-resolution capabilities into new territory. It enables detailed study of IR-active materials, photonic devices, and semiconductors, revealing chemical composition, thermal contrast, and other IR-specific features at the nanoscale.
The SMAL lens family offers a comprehensive, non-destructive imaging toolkit. With various configurations to match different sample types and research needs, SMAL gives scientists the precision and flexibility to choose the right lens for their specific goals.
SMAL Lens Family At a Glance
Source: LIG Nanowise Ltd.
Lens
Type |
Mode |
Resolution |
Field of
View |
Working
Distance |
Ideal Use
Case |
DRY
SMAL |
Dry (air) |
<80 nm |
10–1 µm |
~1.5 µm |
General nanoscale imaging, routine sample inspection without immersion |
IMMERSION
SMAL |
Oil /
Water |
<80 nm |
10–15 µm |
~2 µm |
Biological specimens, thin films; enhanced numerical aperture for brighter, clearer imaging |
WIDE-FIELD
SMAL |
Dry /
Immersion |
<100 nm |
30 µm |
~1.5-2 µm |
Large, flat samples where context and overview matter (e.g., 2D materials, wafers) |
MULTI-SPHERE
SMAL |
Dry /
Immersion |
<100 nm |
10–15 µm |
~1.5–2 µm |
Surface nanostructures and materials research; microsphere arrays amplify optical resolution |
IR
SMAL |
Dry /
Immersion |
<100 nm |
10–20 µm |
~1.5–2 µm |
Infrared-sensitive materials, photonics, semiconductors; super-resolution beyond visible light |