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Fabrication and Operation of a Nano-Optical Conveyor Belt
Published on: August 26, 2015
An absorption-based superconducting nano-detector as a near-field optical probe
Qiang Wang1, Michiel J A de Dood
1Institute of Physics, Leiden University, Niels Bohrweg 2, Leiden, 2333CA, The Netherlands. wang@physics.leidenuniv.nl
Optics Express
|March 14, 2013
Summary
A superconducting nano-detector acts as a novel near-field probe, absorbing photons for higher collection efficiency. This absorption-based probe minimally impacts dipole emission rates, unlike traditional metal probes.
Area of Science:
- Optics and Photonics
- Materials Science
- Nanotechnology
Background:
- Conventional scanning near-field optical microscopy faces limitations in collection efficiency.
- Developing advanced probes is crucial for high-resolution nanoscale imaging and characterization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of a superconducting nano-detector as a novel near-field optical probe.
- To compare its performance, particularly collection efficiency and interaction effects, with existing methods.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a superconducting nano-detector for near-field photon absorption and detection.
- Developed and applied a multipole model to analyze the nano-detector's interaction with dipole emitters.
- Calculated the local density of states to assess modifications to emission rates.
Main Results:
- The superconducting nano-detector demonstrates higher photon collection efficiency compared to conventional probes.
- The multipole model quantifies the interaction between the nano-detector and dipole emitters.
- Calculations indicate minimal modification of dipole emission rates by the nano-detector.
Conclusions:
- Superconducting nano-detectors offer a promising alternative for near-field probing with enhanced collection efficiency.
- This absorption-based approach provides a less perturbing interaction with emitters than traditional metal probes.
