First functionally complete logic gate within soft material using only beams of visible light; carries out simple operations typically done by electronics

https://www.eurekalert.org/news-releases/1106889

"uses NAND gate (combinations of which can construct all gate types)... computes/ makes decisions instead of simply responding to stimuli... shining 3 lasers into merocyanine-functionalized hydrogel contracts it/ increases its refractive index, causing beam to narrow/ brighten... in this way, beams inhibit each other in predictable pattern, allowing input/ output mapping without wires, electrodes, external circuits... mimics biological materials' autonomy... self-adapting: soft robotics, medical devices/ implants"