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Characterization of diffusing sub-10 nm nano-objects using single anti-resonant element optical fibers
Torsten Wieduwilt1, Ronny Förster1, Mona Nissen1,2
1Leibniz Institute of Photonic Technology, Albert-Einstein-Str. 9, 07745, Jena, Germany.
Nature Communications
|June 5, 2023
Summary
Fiber-assisted nanoparticle tracking analysis precisely characterizes nanoparticles as small as 9 nm. This breakthrough advances nanoscale research and pharmaceutical applications by enabling accurate measurement of very small particles.
Area of Science:
- Nanotechnology
- Materials Science
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Accurate characterization of nanoscale species is crucial for understanding nanoscale processes.
- Fiber-assisted nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) is an emerging technique for nanoscale measurements.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the potential of fiber-assisted NTA for characterizing very small nanoparticles (<20 nm).
- To achieve high-precision measurements of individual nanoparticle diameters.
Main Methods:
- Experimental studies and statistical analysis were employed.
- A sophisticated fiber and chip design was utilized.
- Elastic light scattering was used for detection.
Main Results:
- Successfully characterized diffusing nanoparticles as small as 9 nm with record precision.
- Determined the smallest individual nanoparticle diameter using NTA with elastic light scattering alone.
- Achieved a detection limit constrained by the background scattering of ultrapure water.
Conclusions:
- Fiber-assisted NTA demonstrates significant potential for characterizing ultra-small nanoparticles.
- The method's precision approaches the fundamental limits of NTA.
- Enables new applications in nanoparticle growth studies and pharmaceutical control.
