A fiber optic system for detection and collection of micrometer-size particles

An optical fiber containing longitudinal holes adjacent to the core has been used to detect and collect fluorescent particles from a solution. Excitation light was launched through the fiber and fluorescence signal was guided back to a detector system. As a proof of principle, green and red fluorescent polystyrene beads were detected and selectively collected from a water solution containing a mixture of red and green fluorescent beads.