In this new installment of "Austral Investiga," we present the work of Dr. Mauro Cuevas, professor at the Faculty of Engineering and independent researcher at CONICET, who shares his research on nanotechnology applied to optics and energy efficiency.
About 20 years ago, the arrival of LED lighting revolutionized applications such as traffic lights, improving their visibility and significantly reducing energy consumption. This advancement, based on electromagnetic cavities at the nanoscale, marked the beginning of a transformation in the use of light in society. "Our group prioritizes addressing problems related to energy waste. We believe that concrete solutions can be offered from nanoscale structures," explains Dr. Cuevas.
Dr. Cuevas's team's research focuses on designing photonic structures capable of highlighting specific optical phenomena. These structures, ranging in size from microns to nanometers, are essential for controlling and manipulating light emission. "We design tiny cavities that allow us to manipulate the emission of atoms, making them emit more radiation than usual or even blocking their emission. This type of control has potential applications that directly impact technology and society," the researcher explains.
To illustrate his work, Dr. Cuevas mentions reflective eyeglasses as an example of how light interacts with dielectric materials. However, he emphasizes that the cavities they develop are much smaller and more specific, designed to house minute quantities of photons and study how atoms interact with light at a fundamental level.
In addition to technological advances, Dr. Cuevas emphasizes the importance of basic knowledge as a driver of innovation: "It is key not only to focus on products, but also on the means to achieve them. Basic knowledge allows us to imagine solutions to people's real problems."
A passion for research also plays a central role in her career: "I was lucky to have a thesis advisor who not only imparted knowledge but also enthusiasm. Enjoying what you do is fundamental to making a difference," she reflected.
Full interview on our channel YouTube
