Particle trapping with optical nanofibers: a review [Invited].

Area of Science:

• Physics
• Materials Science
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Optical tweezers are effective for manipulating micro- and nanoparticles.
• Conventional optical tweezers face limitations with nanoscale or complex particle manipulation.
• A need exists for alternative, more precise particle manipulation tools.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review particle trapping using optical nanofibers.
• To highlight the advantages of optical nanofibers over conventional optical tweezers.
• To discuss challenges and future potential in optical nanofiber manipulation.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing optical nanofibers with waist diameters smaller than the light's wavelength.
• Leveraging the large evanescent field extending beyond the nanofiber surface.
• Employing fibered experimental setups for ease of integration.

Main Results:

• Optical nanofibers demonstrate efficient trapping, rotation, transport, and assembly of various particles.
• Nanofibers provide strong electric field confinement and intense evanescent fields.
• Successful manipulation of diverse particles, including biological and colloidal entities, has been achieved.

Conclusions:

• Optical nanofibers present a promising alternative for precise particle manipulation at the nanoscale.
• Their unique properties facilitate advanced applications in various scientific fields.
• Further research into optical nanofiber technology holds significant future potential.