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Single-Particle Photothermal Microscopy Using On-Chip Silicon Nitride Microring Resonators
Yulia Podorova1, Cecilia H Vollbrecht1, Samantha J Evans1
1Department of Chemistry, University of Wisconsin-Madison, 1101 University Ave, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, United States.
The Journal of Physical Chemistry. A
|December 24, 2025
Summary
Silicon nitride microring resonators (MRRs) enable sensitive single-particle photothermal microscopy. This study calibrated the technique using carbon nanotubes, validating its potential for nanoscale thermal detection.
Area of Science:
- Photonics
- Nanotechnology
- Microscopy
Background:
- Optical microresonators offer high sensitivity for detecting thermal changes.
- On-chip integrated devices are crucial for advanced sensing applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate silicon nitride microring resonators (MRRs) for single-particle photothermal microscopy.
- Calibrate the technique and assess the MRR geometry for microscopy.
Main Methods:
- Utilized on-chip integrated silicon nitride microring resonators (MRRs).
- Employed single nonphotoluminescent carbon nanotubes for calibration.
- Performed finite-element simulations to analyze thermal gradients.
Main Results:
- Determined absorption cross-section per atom for carbon nanotubes, matching literature values.
- Successfully demonstrated single-particle photothermal microscopy using MRRs.
- Quantified thermal gradients relevant to the planar MRR geometry.
Conclusions:
- The study validates MRRs as a viable platform for sensitive single-particle photothermal microscopy.
- Finite-element simulations provide crucial insights into thermal dynamics.
- The planar MRR geometry presents specific advantages and limitations for this application.
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