I've never really comprehended what the AM crystal shortage is all about. Do licenced stations no longer use crystals? I.dont know, maybe not, but they used to be a requirement. But radio crystals continue to be manufactured for devices like RC cars and planes, as well as for things like solar panels. I realize there is a supply/demand issue with AM, but really would it be so inefficient for current crystal manufacturers to automate small runs to maintain a stock since they are manufacturing them for other frequencies anyway?
So I rant. Because this interesting article, which has nothing to do with broadcasting. I also note this laser device was designed at MSU, which is also where the first part 15 whip and mast were designed, but again, it has nothing to with this..
Scientists ‘draw’ crystals with gold using single laser pulse for better solar panels
https://interestingengineering.com/innovation/scientists-draw-crystals-with-gold
Researchers at Michigan State University (MSU) have developed a novel method to control the location and timing of crystal growth precisely. .. “With this method, we can essentially grow crystals at precise locations and times,” ... we can also steer how it develops,” ..A solid material is a crystal when constituent particles (atoms, molecules, or ions) are arranged in a continuous, highly ordered, three-dimensional structure.
.. ..This novel method of crystal creation offers researchers unprecedented control, allowing them to “draw” crystals much like a laser engraves metal or wood. .. ... Apart from technological applications, the findings provide fresh insights into how crystals form — a tricky and often mysterious area of chemistry. ... Ultimately, they plan to create more complex patterns and test the crystals in real-world devices.
The study was supported with funding from the U.S. Department of Defense.
Here's the laser they built to do it:
