Refraktory

Refraktory is a term used in some fields to refer to devices or materials that actively modify the refraction of light. The word is not widely standardized and is formed from refract with the -ory suffix, suggesting a class or system related to refraction. In academic contexts the term is rarer than established terms such as refractive index and metamaterials, and its meaning can vary by discipline.

When used, refraktory describes materials or structures with tunable or programmable refraction. This often means the angle or degree of refraction can be changed in response to an external stimulus, such as an electric field, temperature, or mechanical strain. Examples include electro-optic or thermo-optic materials, liquid crystal devices, and phase-change materials that alter optical density. In practice, research on refraktory concepts generally overlaps with areas such as metamaterials, gradient-index optics, and tunable lenses.

In some contexts, refraktory is used to refer to composite structures designed to produce abrupt changes in refractive behavior at interfaces or within a medium, enabling applications such as flat lenses or beam steering components. In fictional or speculative settings, Refraktory may appear as a brand name or concept for a company, device, or system that aims to control light paths with high precision, potentially supporting advanced imaging, holography, or cloaking.

See also: Refraction, Refractive index, Metamaterials, Tunable lens, Gradient-index optics, Electro-optic materials, Phase-change materials.