Rotational dynamics of optically trapped nanofibers

Opt Express. 2010 Jan 18;18(2):822-30. doi: 10.1364/OE.18.000822.

Abstract

We report on the experimental evidence of tilted polymer nanofiber rotation, using a highly focused linear polarized Gaussian beam. Torque is controlled by varying trapping power or fiber tilt angle. This suggests an alternative strategy to previously reported approaches for the rotation of nano-objects, to test fundamental theoretical aspects. We compare experimental rotation frequencies to calculations based on T-Matrix formalism, which accurately reproduces measured data, thus providing a comprehensive description of trapping and rotation dynamics of the linear nanostructures.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Computer Simulation
  • Light
  • Models, Chemical*
  • Nanotubes / chemistry*
  • Nanotubes / radiation effects*
  • Nanotubes / ultrastructure
  • Optical Tweezers*
  • Rotation
  • Torque