Dutch researchers have from a way to make ‘mechanical pixels’ allowing for more energy-efficient and durable displays in the future. The technology is based on graphene – a carbon material that’s only a single atom thick!

The researchers of the Delft University of Technology coated a sample of silicon oxide in 2 layers of graphene. They observed that the graphene would reflect colour from the slight imperfections on the silicon oxide surface. They were able to control which colours were reflected by manipulating the pressure of the test chamber.

By increasing or decreasing the pressure, the graphene would flex or relax – reflecting different hues and colours of light. This is how Qualcomm’s Mirasol works, and indeed the researchers are thinking of using Mirasol’s electrostatic mechanism for increased accuracy. As it stands, the graphene technology used cannot produce accurate, solid colours.