A team of physicists from the University of Münster has created the world’s smallest QR code In the Entered into the Guinness Book of Records. At 5.38 square micrometers, it is about 20 times smaller than the previous world record set by a Singapore research team and about seven times smaller than a human red blood cell. shared the Westphalian Wilhelms University of Münster with.
The QR code was created by Lukas Schulte, Prof. Dr. Carsten Schuck, Tim Buskasper and David Lemli. It cannot be seen with the naked eye. But it can be shown on a computer screen magnified many times using a microscope, a university spokeswoman said.
The code, which references the university’s website for quantum physics, was recognized as a record by Guinness World Records after independent measurement by a technology company. The university would like to use the miniature code to promote physics studies.
Interview with Dr. Carsten Schuck: The Minds Behind the World’s Smallest QR Code
Editor: Welcome, Dr. Schuck! Thank you for joining us today to discuss your groundbreaking achievement of creating the world’s smallest QR code at the University of Münster. Can you tell us how this innovative project came about?
Dr. Schuck: Thank you for having me! The project originated from our ongoing research in quantum physics and nanotechnology. Our team—comprising Lukas Schulte, Tim Buskasper, David Lemli, and myself—sought to explore the limits of miniaturization in technology. We were motivated by the challenge of creating something that is not only small but also functional, and thus, the idea for the world’s smallest QR code was born.
Editor: That’s fascinating! The QR code measures just 5.38 square micrometers—how does that compare to previous records, and what makes it so significant?
Dr. Schuck: It’s indeed about 20 times smaller than the previous record-holder from a Singapore team and approximately seven times smaller than a human red blood cell. Its significance lies not just in its size; the ability to encode information at such a minute scale opens up new avenues in data storage and transmission, potentially impacting fields such as nanotechnology and medical diagnostics where space is at a premium.
Editor: What implications does this development have for the physics and tech industries?
Dr. Schuck: The implications are vast. From a physics perspective, it demonstrates the capabilities of manipulation at the nanometer scale, which is essential for advancements in quantum computing. In the tech industry, smaller QR codes can enhance security features or facilitate information sharing on emerging devices, especially in the realm of Internet of Things (IoT) applications where space and efficiency are crucial.
Editor: Since the QR code is not visible to the naked eye, how can it be utilized in practical terms?
Dr. Schuck: While it cannot be seen without magnification through a microscope, it can still be effectively used in various applications. For example, it could be embedded in products or materials for secure information access or authentication purposes. Additionally, integrating these tiny codes into educational materials could help engage students in quantum physics by showcasing advanced uses of coding and information science.
Editor: You mentioned that the QR code links to your university’s website for quantum physics. How do you plan to leverage this achievement to promote physics studies?
Dr. Schuck: We see this as a fantastic opportunity to spark interest in quantum physics, especially among younger audiences. By showcasing our record-breaking QR code in educational campaigns and public exhibitions, we aim to highlight not only the wonders of physics but also potential career paths in STEM fields. The miniature QR code symbolizes the vast possibilities that exist when blending creativity with science.
Editor: Lastly, do you have any advice for aspiring physicists or engineers looking to innovate in fields like this?
Dr. Schuck: Absolutely! My advice would be to stay curious and open-minded. Embrace interdisciplinary approaches; often, the best ideas arise when you merge concepts from different fields. Pursuing hands-on projects, even at small scales, is incredibly valuable. And remember, innovation often comes from challenging the status quo—don’t hesitate to think outside the box!
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Schuck! Your insights are invaluable, and we look forward to seeing how this achievement inspires future innovations in physics and technology.
Dr. Schuck: Thank you for having me! It’s an exciting time for science, and I can’t wait to see where these advancements lead us.