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Optothermal rotation of micro-/nano-objects in liquids
Hongru Ding1, Zhihan Chen2, Carolina Ponce1
1Walker Department of Mechanical Engineering, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA.
Arxiv
|January 30, 2023
Summary
Optothermal rotation uses light-induced heat for precise control of micro/nanoparticles. This contactless method offers simpler optics and lower power, advancing fields like cellular biology and micro/nanorobotics.
Area of Science:
- Physics
- Engineering
- Materials Science
Background:
- Controllable rotation of micro-/nano-objects is crucial for cellular biology, 3D imaging, and micro/nanorobotics.
- Optical rotation offers contactless and fuel-free operation but is limited by optical heating.
- Optothermal rotation leverages light-modulated thermal effects for simpler, lower-power, and more versatile object manipulation.
Approach:
- Categorization of optothermal rotation techniques based on physical mechanisms: thermophoresis, thermoelectricity, thermo-electrokinetics, thermo-osmosis, thermal convection, and thermo-capillarity.
- Discussion of recent advancements, focusing on work from the research group.
- Demonstration of in-plane and out-of-plane rotation modes.
Key Points:
- Optothermal rotation overcomes limitations of traditional optical rotation by utilizing thermal effects.
- Diverse physical mechanisms enable a range of rotation capabilities.
- Successful applications demonstrated in single-cell mechanics, 3D bio-imaging, and micro/nanomotors.
Conclusions:
- Optothermal rotation presents a promising approach for precise micro/nanoscale manipulation.
- Future directions include addressing current challenges and refining operating guidelines.
- This technique holds significant potential for various scientific and technological applications.
