Ignas Bitinaitis Awarded PhD for Research in Sensor, Space and Laser Technologies

Ignas Bitinaitis, a physicist at the FTMC Department of Laser Technologies, has been awarded a PhD in Technological Sciences. His doctoral dissertation, “Magnetron Sputtered Metal – Dielectric Optical Coatings for Sensing and Space Applications” (supervisor: Dr Alexandr Belosludtsev), was successfully defended.

The early-career researcher notes that silver and chromium coatings have long been used to modify the properties of materials. Today, they play a particularly important role in optics, electronics and advanced technologies. Silver is valued for its excellent light-reflecting properties and is therefore widely used in mirrors, sensors and transparent conductors. Chromium, meanwhile, is known for its durability and stability, making it suitable for protective coatings and optical filters.

In his research, Ignas investigated how ultra-thin metal layers, particularly silver and chromium, can be used to develop more sensitive optical sensors and longer-lasting optical coatings for space and laser applications. The main objective was to understand how the thickness and composition of these layers affect their properties, and how these findings can be applied in real-world devices.

“This research could help create more sensitive medical and biological sensors capable of detecting diseases or biological substances more rapidly. It also contributes to the development of improved mirrors and optical systems for space communications, telescopes and laser technologies.

What I am most pleased about is that we succeeded in developing an optical sensor structure with a sensitivity four times greater than that of conventional gold-based sensors. We also managed to improve the resistance of silver mirrors to the harsh conditions of space while maintaining their exceptionally high reflectivity,” says Dr Bitinaitis.

The dissertation can be read by following this link.

FTMC information