Optically induced multi-particle structures: multi-dimensional energy landscapes

Luciana C. Davila Romero, Justo Rodriguez, David L. Andrews

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter

4 Citations (Scopus)
13 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Recent quantum electrodynamical studies on optically induced inter-particle potential energy surfaces have revealed unexpected features of considerable intricacy. The exploitation of these features presents a host of opportunities for the optical fabrication of nanoscale structures, based on the fine control of a variety of attractive and repulsive forces, and the torques that operate on particle pairs. Here we report an extension of these studies, exploring the first detailed potential energy surfaces for a system of three particles irradiated by a polarized laser beam. Such a system is the key prototype for developing generic models of multi-particle complexity. The analysis identifies and characterizes potential points of stability, as well as forces and torques that particles experience as a consequence of the electromagnetic fields, generated by optical perturbations. Promising results are exhibited for the optical fabrication of assemblies of molecules, nanoparticles, microparticles, and colloidal multi-particle arrays. The comprehension of mechanism that is emerging should help determine the fine principles of multi-particle optical assembly.
Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationNanophotonics II
EditorsDL Andrews, J-M Nunzi, A Ostendorf
Volume6988
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 23 Apr 2008
EventNanophotonics II - Strasbourg, France
Duration: 7 Apr 2008 → …

Publication series

NameProceedings of the Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers (SPIE)

Conference

ConferenceNanophotonics II
Country/TerritoryFrance
CityStrasbourg
Period7/04/08 → …

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