Researchers discovered a new way to control light, and the finding could lead to the next generation of ultra-fast computing.

The new method manipulates light using a device that is almost microscopic and is shaped like a honeycomb, the University of Central Florida reported. The innovation allows scientists steer light beams around super tight curves without compromising their integrity. The breakthrough could allow for a quicker and more effective way to transmit data on electronic circuit boards.

"Computer chips and circuit boards have metal wire connections within them that transport data signals," said Raymond Rumpf, professor of electrical and computer engineering at UTEP. "One of challenges when using light is figuring out a way to make tight bends so we can replace the metal wiring more effectively."

The researchers used direct laser writing (a type of nanoscale 3-D printing) to create the tiny devices. The team then ran laser beams through the material, and determined light could easily flow through turns that were never possible before without losing integrity.

This new technology breaks records in the field of optics for its ability to sharply bend light. In the future the researchers hope to double that record. Rumpf believes the technology will be seen in high-performance supercomputers before it is available for personal devices such as laptops.  

"Direct laser writing has the potential to become a flexible means for manufacturing next-generation computer devices," said Stephen Kuebler, associate professor of chemistry at UCF.

The findings were published in a recent edition of the journal Optics Express.