Sample records for vapor-cell magneto-optical traps

  1. Magneto-optical trapping of potassium isotopes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Williamson, Robert Sylvester, III

    1997-12-01

    We have demonstrated a magneto-optical trap (scMOT) suitable for capturing radioactive potassium produced on- line with the UW-Madison 12MeV tandem electrostatic accelerator. To do this, we made and characterized the first scMOT for potassium, measured the potassium ultracold collision rate, and developed a numerical trap- loading rate model that makes useful quantitative predictions. We have created a cold beam of collimated potassium atoms using a pyramidal magneto-optical funnel and used it to load a long-lifetime scMOT operating at ultrahigh vacuum. We have also built a target that produces a beam of radioactive 37K and 38K and coupled it to the magneto-optical funnel and trap. Once a trap of radioactive 38K has been demonstrated, the primary goal of this project is to measure the beta-asymmetry parameter in the decay of 38K, performing a sensitive test of the Standard Model of weak interactions.

  2. Magneto-optical trap for thulium atoms

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Sukachev, D.; Sokolov, A.; Chebakov, K.

    2010-07-15

    Thulium atoms are trapped in a magneto-optical trap using a strong transition at 410 nm with a small branching ratio. We trap up to 7x10{sup 4} atoms at a temperature of 0.8(2) mK after deceleration in a 40-cm-long Zeeman slower. Optical leaks from the cooling cycle influence the lifetime of atoms in the magneto-optical trap which varies between 0.3 and 1.5 s in our experiments. The lower limit for the leaking rate from the upper cooling level is measured to be 22(6) s{sup -1}. The repumping laser transferring the atomic population out of the F=3 hyperfine ground-state sublevel gives amore » 30% increase for the lifetime and the number of atoms in the trap.« less

  3. Efficient repumping of a Ca magneto-optical trap

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mills, Michael; Puri, Prateek; Yu, Yanmei; Derevianko, Andrei; Schneider, Christian; Hudson, Eric R.

    2017-09-01

    We investigate the limiting factors in the standard implementation of the Ca magneto-optical trap. We find that intercombination transitions from the 4 s 5 p 1P1 state used to repump the electronic population from the 3 d 4 s 1D2 state severely reduce the trap lifetime. We explore seven alternative repumping schemes theoretically and investigate five of them experimentally. We find that all five of these schemes yield a significant increase in the trap lifetime and consequently improve the number of atoms and peak atom density by as much as ˜20 times and ˜6 times, respectively. One of these transitions, at 453 nm, is shown to approach the fundamental limit for a Ca magneto-optical trap with repumping only from the dark 3 d 4 s 1D2 state, yielding a trap lifetime of ˜5 s.

  4. Rydberg-Dressed Magneto-optical Trap

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bounds, A. D.; Jackson, N. C.; Hanley, R. K.; Faoro, R.; Bridge, E. M.; Huillery, P.; Jones, M. P. A.

    2018-05-01

    We propose and demonstrate the laser cooling and trapping of Rydberg-dressed Sr atoms. By off-resonantly coupling the excited state of a narrow (7 kHz) cooling transition to a high-lying Rydberg state, we transfer Rydberg properties such as enhanced electric polarizability to a stable magneto-optical trap operating at <1 μ K . Simulations show that it is possible to reach a regime where the long-range interaction between Rydberg-dressed atoms becomes comparable to the kinetic energy, opening a route to combining laser cooling with tunable long-range interactions.

  5. Hexapole-compensated magneto-optical trap on a mesoscopic atom chip

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Joellenbeck, S.; Mahnke, J.; Randoll, R.

    2011-04-15

    Magneto-optical traps on atom chips are usually restricted to small atomic samples due to a limited capture volume caused primarily by distorted field configurations. Here we present a magneto-optical trap based on a millimeter-sized wire structure which generates a magnetic field with minimized distortions. Together with the loading from a high-flux two-dimensional magneto-optical trap, we achieve a loading rate of 8.4x10{sup 10} atoms/s and maximum number of 8.7x10{sup 9} captured atoms. The wire structure is placed outside of the vacuum to enable a further adaptation to new scientific objectives. Since all magnetic fields are applied locally without the need formore » external bias fields, the presented setup will facilitate parallel generation of Bose-Einstein condensates on a conveyor belt with a cycle rate above 1 Hz.« less

  6. Radio Frequency Magneto-Optical Trapping of CaF with High Density.

    PubMed

    Anderegg, Loïc; Augenbraun, Benjamin L; Chae, Eunmi; Hemmerling, Boerge; Hutzler, Nicholas R; Ravi, Aakash; Collopy, Alejandra; Ye, Jun; Ketterle, Wolfgang; Doyle, John M

    2017-09-08

    We demonstrate significantly improved magneto-optical trapping of molecules using a very slow cryogenic beam source and either rf modulated or dc magnetic fields. The rf magneto-optical trap (MOT) confines 1.0(3)×10^{5} CaF molecules at a density of 7(3)×10^{6}  cm^{-3}, which is an order of magnitude greater than previous molecular MOTs. Near Doppler-limited temperatures of 340(20)  μK are attained. The achieved density enables future work to directly load optical tweezers and create optical arrays for quantum simulation.

  7. Improved Radio-Frequency Magneto-Optical Trap of SrF Molecules.

    PubMed

    Steinecker, Matthew H; McCarron, Daniel J; Zhu, Yuqi; DeMille, David

    2016-11-18

    We report the production of ultracold, trapped strontium monofluoride (SrF) molecules with number density and phase-space density significantly higher than previously achieved. These improvements are enabled by three distinct changes to our recently-demonstrated scheme for radio-frequency magneto-optical trapping of SrF: modification of the slowing laser beam geometry, addition of an optical pumping laser, and incorporation of a compression stage to the magneto-optical trap. With these improvements, we observe a trapped sample of SrF molecules at density 2.5×10 5  cm -3 and phase-space density 6×10 -14 , each a factor of 4 greater than in previous work. Under different experimental conditions, we observe trapping of up to 10 4 molecules, a factor of 5 greater than in previous work. Finally, by reducing the intensity of the applied trapping light, we observe molecular temperatures as low as 250 μK. © 2016 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  8. Transient response of nonlinear magneto-optic rotation in a paraffin-coated Rb vapor cell

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Momeen, M. Ummal; Rangarajan, G.; Natarajan, Vasant

    2010-01-15

    We study resonant nonlinear magneto-optic rotation (NMOR) in a paraffin-coated Rb vapor cell as the magnetic field is swept. At low sweep rates, the nonlinear rotation appears as a narrow resonance signal with a linewidth of about '300 muG' (2pix420 Hz). At high sweep rates, the signal shows transient response with an oscillatory decay. The decay time constant is of order 100 ms. The behavior is different for transitions starting from the lower or the upper hyperfine level of the ground state because of optical pumping effects.

  9. Ultracold molecules for the masses: Evaporative cooling and magneto-optical trapping

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Stuhl, B. K.

    While cold molecule experiments are rapidly moving towards their promised benefits of precision spectroscopy, controllable chemistry, and novel condensed phases, heretofore the field has been greatly limited by a lack of methods to cool and compress chemically diverse species to temperatures below ten millikelvin. While in atomic physics these needs are fulfilled by laser cooling, magneto-optical trapping, and evaporative cooling, until now none of these techniques have been applicable to molecules. In this thesis, two major breakthroughs are reported. The first is the observation of evaporative cooling in magnetically trapped hydroxyl (OH) radicals, which potentially opens a path all the way to Bose-Einstein condensation of dipolar radicals, as well as allowing cold- and ultracold-chemistry studies of fundamental reaction mechanisms. Through the combination of an extremely high gradient magnetic quadrupole trap and the use of the OH Λ-doublet transition to enable highly selective forced evaporation, cooling by an order of magnitude in temperature was achieved and yielded a final temperature no higher than 5mK. The second breakthrough is the successful application of laser cooling and magneto-optical trapping to molecules. Motivated by a proposal in this thesis, laser cooling of molecules is now known to be technically feasible in a select but substantial pool of diatomic molecules. The demonstration of not only Doppler cooling but also two-dimensional magneto-optical trapping in yttrium (II) oxide, YO, is expected to enable rapid growth in the availability of ultracold molecules—just as the invention of the atomic magneto-optical trap stimulated atomic physics twenty-five years ago.

  10. The Laser Cooling and Magneto-Optical Trapping of the YO Molecule

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yeo, Mark

    Laser cooling and magneto-optical trapping of neutral atoms has revolutionized the field of atomic physics by providing an elegant and efficient method to produce cold dense samples of ultracold atoms. Molecules, with their strong anisotropic dipolar interaction promises to unlock even richer phenomenon. However, due to their additional vibrational and rotational degrees of freedom, laser cooling techniques have only been extended to a small set of diatomic molecules. In this thesis, we demonstrate the first magneto-optical trapping of a diatomic molecule using a quasi-cycling transition and an oscillating quadrupole magnetic field. The transverse temperature of a cryogenically produced YO beam was reduced from 25 mK to 10 mK via doppler cooling and further reduced to 2 mK with the addition of magneto-optical trapping forces. The optical cycling in YO is complicated by the presence of an intermediate electronic state, as decays through this state lead to optical pumping into dark rotational states. Thus, we also demonstrate the mixing of rotational states in the ground electronic state using microwave radiation. This technique greatly enhances optical cycling, leading to a factor of 4 increase in the YO beam fluorescence and is used in conjunction with a frequency modulated and chirped continuous wave laser to longitudinally slow the YO beam. We generate YO molecules below 10 m/s that are directly loadable into a three-dimensional magneto-optical trap. This mixing technique provides an alternative to maintaining rotational closure and should extend laser cooling to a larger set of molecules.

  11. Kinematic cooling of molecules in a magneto-optical trap

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Takase, Ken; Chandler, David W.; Strecker, Kevin E.

    2008-05-01

    We will present our current progress on a new experimental technique aimed at slowing and cooling hot molecules using a single collision with magneto-optically trapped atoms. Kinematic cooling, unlike buffer gas and sympathetic cooling, relies only on a single collision between the molecule and atom to stop the molecule in the laboratory frame. This technique has recently been demonstrated in a crossed atomic and molecular beam machine to produce 35mK samples of nitric oxide via a single collision with argon [1]. In this technique we replace the atomic beam with a sample magneto-optically trapped atoms. We are currently designing and building a new apparatus to attempt these experiments. [1] Kevin E. Strecker and David W. Chandler (to be published)

  12. Microwave-mediated magneto-optical trap for polar molecules

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dizhou, Xie; Wenhao, Bu; Bo, Yan

    2016-05-01

    Realizing a molecular magneto-optical trap has been a dream for cold molecular physicists for a long time. However, due to the complex energy levels and the small effective Lande g-factor of the excited states, the traditional magneto-optical trap (MOT) scheme does not work very well for polar molecules. One way to overcome this problem is the switching MOT, which requires very fast switching of both the magnetic field and the laser polarizations. Switching laser polarizations is relatively easy, but fast switching of the magnetic field is experimentally challenging. Here we propose an alternative approach, the microwave-mediated MOT, which requires a slight change of the current experimental setup to solve the problem. We calculate the MOT force and compare it with the traditional MOT and the switching MOT scheme. The results show that we can operate a good MOT with this simple setup. Project supported by the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities of China.

  13. Submillikelvin Dipolar Molecules in a Radio-Frequency Magneto-Optical Trap.

    PubMed

    Norrgard, E B; McCarron, D J; Steinecker, M H; Tarbutt, M R; DeMille, D

    2016-02-12

    We demonstrate a scheme for magneto-optically trapping strontium monofluoride (SrF) molecules at temperatures one order of magnitude lower and phase space densities 3 orders of magnitude higher than obtained previously with laser-cooled molecules. In our trap, optical dark states are destabilized by rapidly and synchronously reversing the trapping laser polarizations and the applied magnetic field gradient. The number of molecules and trap lifetime are also significantly improved from previous work by loading the trap with high laser power and then reducing the power for long-term trapping. With this procedure, temperatures as low as 400  μK are achieved.

  14. Experimental nonlinear dynamical studies in cesium magneto-optical trap using time-series analysis

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Anwar, M., E-mail: mamalik2000@gmail.com; Islam, R.; Faisal, M.

    2015-03-30

    A magneto-optical trap of neutral atoms is essentially a dissipative quantum system. The fast thermal atoms continuously dissipate their energy to the environment via spontaneous emissions during the cooling. The atoms are, therefore, strongly coupled with the vacuum reservoir and the laser field. The vacuum fluctuations as well as the field fluctuations are imparted to the atoms as random photon recoils. Consequently, the external and internal dynamics of atoms becomes stochastic. In this paper, we have investigated the stochastic dynamics of the atoms in a magneto-optical trap during the loading process. The time series analysis of the fluorescence signal showsmore » that the dynamics of the atoms evolves, like all dissipative systems, from deterministic to the chaotic regime. The subsequent disappearance and revival of chaos was attributed to chaos synchronization between spatially different atoms in the magneto-optical trap.« less

  15. Production and characterization of a dual species magneto-optical trap of cesium and ytterbium.

    PubMed

    Kemp, S L; Butler, K L; Freytag, R; Hopkins, S A; Hinds, E A; Tarbutt, M R; Cornish, S L

    2016-02-01

    We describe an apparatus designed to trap and cool a Yb and Cs mixture. The apparatus consists of a dual species effusive oven source, dual species Zeeman slower, magneto-optical traps in a single ultra-high vacuum science chamber, and the associated laser systems. The dual species Zeeman slower is used to load sequentially the two species into their respective traps. Its design is flexible and may be adapted for other experiments with different mixtures of atomic species. The apparatus provides excellent optical access and can apply large magnetic bias fields to the trapped atoms. The apparatus regularly produces 10(8) Cs atoms at 13.3 μK in an optical molasses, and 10(9) (174)Y b atoms cooled to 22 μK in a narrowband magneto-optical trap.

  16. Single-laser, one beam, tetrahedral magneto-optical trap.

    PubMed

    Vangeleyn, Matthieu; Griffin, Paul F; Riis, Erling; Arnold, Aidan S

    2009-08-03

    We have realized a 4-beam pyramidal magneto-optical trap ideally suited for future microfabrication. Three mirrors split and steer a single incoming beam into a tripod of reflected beams, allowing trapping in the four-beam overlap volume. We discuss the influence of mirror angle on cooling and trapping, finding optimum efficiency in a tetrahedral configuration. We demonstrate the technique using an ex-vacuo mirror system to illustrate the previously inaccessible supra-plane pyramid MOT configuration. Unlike standard pyramidal MOTs both the pyramid apex and its mirror angle are non-critical and our MOT offers improved molasses free from atomic shadows in the laser beams. The MOT scheme naturally extends to a 2-beam refractive version with high optical access. For quantum gas experiments, the mirror system could also be used for a stable 3D tetrahedral optical lattice.

  17. A dynamic magneto-optical trap for atom chips

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rushton, Jo; Roy, Ritayan; Bateman, James; Himsworth, Matt

    2016-11-01

    We describe a dynamic magneto-optical trap (MOT) suitable for the use with vacuum systems in which optical access is limited to a single window. This technique facilitates the long-standing desire of producing integrated atom chips, many of which are likely to have severely restricted optical access compared with conventional vacuum chambers. This ‘switching-MOT’ relies on the synchronized pulsing of optical and magnetic fields at audio frequencies. The trap’s beam geometry is obtained using a planar mirror surface, and does not require a patterned substrate or bulky optics inside the vacuum chamber. Central to the design is a novel magnetic field geometry that requires no external quadrupole or bias coils which leads toward a very compact system. We have implemented the trap for 85Rb and shown that it is capable of capturing 2 million atoms and directly cooling below the Doppler temperature.

  18. Ion current as a precise measure of the loading rate of a magneto-optical trap

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Jiang, W.; Bailey, K.; Lu, Z. -T.

    2014-01-01

    We have demonstrated that the ion current resulting from collisions between metastable krypton atoms in a magneto-optical trap can be used to precisely measure the trap loading rate. We measured both the ion current of the abundant isotope Kr-83 (isotopic abundance = 11%) and the single-atom counting rate of the rare isotope Kr-85 (isotopic abundance similar to 1 x 10(-11)), and found the two quantities to be proportional at a precision level of 0.9%. This work results in a significant improvement in using the magneto-optical trap as an analytical tool for noble-gas isotope ratio measurements, and will benefit both atomicmore » physics studies and applications in the earth sciences. (C) 2014 Optical Society of America« less

  19. Narrow-line magneto-optical cooling and trapping of strongly magnetic atoms.

    PubMed

    Berglund, Andrew J; Hanssen, James L; McClelland, Jabez J

    2008-03-21

    Laser cooling on weak transitions is a useful technique for reaching ultracold temperatures in atoms with multiple valence electrons. However, for strongly magnetic atoms a conventional narrow-line magneto-optical trap (MOT) is destabilized by competition between optical and magnetic forces. We overcome this difficulty in Er by developing an unusual narrow-line MOT that balances optical and magnetic forces using laser light tuned to the blue side of a narrow (8 kHz) transition. The trap population is spin polarized with temperatures reaching below 2 muK. Our results constitute an alternative method for laser cooling on weak transitions, applicable to rare-earth-metal and metastable alkaline earth elements.

  20. Cold Atom Source Containing Multiple Magneto-Optical Traps

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Ramirez-Serrano, Jaime; Kohel, James; Kellogg, James; Lim, Lawrence; Yu, Nan; Maleki, Lute

    2007-01-01

    An apparatus that serves as a source of a cold beam of atoms contains multiple two-dimensional (2D) magneto-optical traps (MOTs). (Cold beams of atoms are used in atomic clocks and in diverse scientific experiments and applications.) The multiple-2D-MOT design of this cold atom source stands in contrast to single-2D-MOT designs of prior cold atom sources of the same type. The advantages afforded by the present design are that this apparatus is smaller than prior designs.

  1. Three-dimensional theory of the magneto-optical trap

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Prudnikov, O. N., E-mail: llf@laser.nsc.ru; Taichenachev, A. V.; Yudin, V. I.

    2015-04-15

    The kinetics of atoms in a three-dimensional magneto-optical trap (MOT) is considered. A three-dimensional MOT model has been constructed for an atom with the optical transition J{sub g} = 0 → J{sub e} = 1 (J{sub g,} {sub e} is the total angular momentum in the ground and excited states) in the semiclassical approximation by taking into account the influence of the relative phases of light fields on the kinetics of atoms. We show that the influence of the relative phases can be neglected only in the limit of low light field intensities. Generally, the choice of relative phases canmore » have a strong influence on the kinetics of atoms in a MOT.« less

  2. Saturation spectroscopy of calcium atomic vapor in hot quartz cells with cold windows

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Vilshanskaya, E. V.; Saakyan, S. A.; Sautenkov, V. A.; Murashkin, D. A.; Zelener, B. B.; Zelener, B. V.

    2018-01-01

    Saturation spectroscopy of calcium atomic vapor was performed in hot quartz cells with cold windows. The Doppler-free absorption resonances with spectral width near 50 MHz were observed. For these experiments and future applications long-lived quartz cells with buffer gas were designed and made. A cooling laser for calcium magneto-optical trap will be frequency locked to the saturation resonances in the long-lived cells.

  3. Motion of Cesium Atoms in the One-Dimensional Magneto-Optical Trap

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Li, Yimin; Chen, Xuzong; Wang, Qingji; Wang, Yiqiu

    1996-01-01

    The force to which Cs atoms are subjected in the one-dimensional magneto-optical trap (lD-MOT) is calculated, and properties of this force are discussed. Several methods to increase the number of Cs atoms in the lD-MOT are presented on the basis of the analysis of the capture and escape of Cs atoms in the ID-MOT.

  4. Two-species five-beam magneto-optical trap for erbium and dysprosium

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ilzhöfer, P.; Durastante, G.; Patscheider, A.; Trautmann, A.; Mark, M. J.; Ferlaino, F.

    2018-02-01

    We report on the first realization of a two-species magneto-optical trap (MOT) for the highly magnetic erbium and dysprosium atoms. The MOT operates on an intercombination line for the respective species. Owing to the narrow-line character of such a cooling transition and the action of gravity, we demonstrate a trap geometry employing only five beams in the orthogonal configuration. We observe that the mixture is cooled and trapped very efficiently, with up to 5 ×108 Er atoms and 109 Dy atoms at temperatures of about 10 μ K . Our results offer an ideal starting condition for the creation of a dipolar quantum mixture of highly magnetic atoms.

  5. High Speed Video Measurements of a Magneto-optical Trap

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Horstman, Luke; Graber, Curtis; Erickson, Seth; Slattery, Anna; Hoyt, Chad

    2016-05-01

    We present a video method to observe the mechanical properties of a lithium magneto-optical trap. A sinusoidally amplitude-modulated laser beam perturbed a collection of trapped ce7 Li atoms and the oscillatory response was recorded with a NAC Memrecam GX-8 high speed camera at 10,000 frames per second. We characterized the trap by modeling the oscillating cold atoms as a damped, driven, harmonic oscillator. Matlab scripts tracked the atomic cloud movement and relative phase directly from the captured high speed video frames. The trap spring constant, with magnetic field gradient bz = 36 G/cm, was measured to be 4 . 5 +/- . 5 ×10-19 N/m, which implies a trap resonant frequency of 988 +/- 55 Hz. Additionally, at bz = 27 G/cm the spring constant was measured to be 2 . 3 +/- . 2 ×10-19 N/m, which corresponds to a resonant frequency of 707 +/- 30 Hz. These properties at bz = 18 G/cm were found to be 8 . 8 +/- . 5 ×10-20 N/m, and 438 +/- 13 Hz. NSF #1245573.

  6. Rubidium Cloud Size in a Magneto-Optical Trap

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chatwin-Davies, A.; Kong, T.; Behr, J. A.; Gorelov, A.; Pearson, M.

    2008-05-01

    Preparations for a search for exotic 20 - 556 keV-mass particles emitted during the nuclear 2-body decay of ^86Rb confined in a magneto-optical trap (MOT) are underway at TRIUMF. Such emissions would correspond to a peak in the recoil momentum distribution at a momentum lower than that caused by 556 keV γ emission. The stable isotope ^85Rb is being used to optimize the experimental apparatus since its atomic hyperfine splitting is similar to that of ^86Rb, producing similar laser cooling properties. The size of the cloud of trapped atoms directly affects the achievable momentum resolution of the recoil and must hence be minimized. A Doppler-limited model for cloud size ignoring cooling beyond that generated by the photon scattering force is presented and compared with experimental data. Analysis suggested reducing the intensity and red-detuning from resonance of the trapping light from optimal values for atom collection. We also better balanced the power in the trapping beams. Recent data in disagreement with a Doppler-limited theory indicate sub-Doppler cooling mechanisms (J. Dalibard and C. Cohen-Tannoudji, J. Opt. Soc. Am. B 6, 2023 (1989)) are now at work. A cloud full width at half-maximum of less than 0.25 mm has since been achieved.

  7. Non-Evaporative Cooling via Inelastic Collisions in an Optical Trap

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2013-02-28

    Simultaneous loading of 85 Rb and 87 Rb into an optical trap from a Magneto - optic Trap (MOT) As was mentioned in the previous section, when both...potential in an 85 Rb magneto - optical trap , Phys. Rev. A 83, 033419 (2011) I.D Ultracold plasma response to few-cycle rf pulses As will be detailed in...ultracold atoms of each isotope were cooled into overlapping Magneto - optic Traps (MOTs). From there, the atoms were then loaded into a Far-off

  8. Precision spectroscopy of Mg atoms in a magneto-optical trap

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Goncharov, A N; Brazhnikov, D V; Shilov, A M

    2014-06-30

    We report the results of experimental investigations aimed at creation of the optical frequency standard based on magnesium atoms cooled and localised in a magneto-optical trap (MOT). An experimentally realised MOT for magnesium made it possible to obtain a cloud comprising ∼10{sup 6} – 10{sup 7} atoms at a temperature of 3 – 5 mK. The results of ultra-high resolution spectroscopy of intercombination {sup 1}S{sub 0} – {sup 3}P{sub 1} transition for Mg atom are presented, the resonances in time-domain separated optical fields with the half-width of Γ = 500 Hz are recorded, which corresponds to the Q-factor of themore » reference line Q = ν/Δν ∼ 1.3 × 10{sup 12}. (extreme light fields and their applications)« less

  9. Secondary scattering on the intensity dependence of the capture velocity in a magneto-optical trap

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Loos, M. R.; Massardo, S. B.; de S. Zanon, R. A.; de Oliveira, A. L.

    2005-08-01

    In this work, we consider a three-dimensional model to simulate the capture velocity behavior in a sample of cold-trapped sodium atoms as a function of the trapping laser intensity. We expand on previous work [V. S. Bagnato, L. G. Marcassa, S. G. Miranda, S. R. Muniz, and A. L. de Oliveira, Phys. Rev. A 62, 013404 (2000)] by calculating the capture velocity over a broad range of light intensities considering the secondary scattering in a magneto-optical trap. Our calculations are in a good agreement with recent measured values [S. R. Muniz , Phys. Rev. A 65, 015402 (2001)].

  10. Ion-neutral-atom sympathetic cooling in a hybrid linear rf Paul and magneto-optical trap

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Goodman, D. S.; Sivarajah, I.; Wells, J. E.; Narducci, F. A.; Smith, W. W.

    2012-09-01

    Long-range polarization forces between ions and neutral atoms result in large elastic scattering cross sections (e.g., ˜106a.u. for Na-Na+ or Na-Ca+ at cold and ultracold temperatures). This suggests that a hybrid ion-neutral trap should offer a general means for significant sympathetic cooling of atomic or molecular ions. We present simion 7.0 simulation results concerning the advantages and limitations of sympathetic cooling within a hybrid trap apparatus consisting of a linear rf Paul trap concentric with a Na magneto-optical trap (MOT). This paper explores the impact of various heating mechanisms on the hybrid system and how parameters related to the MOT, Paul trap, number of ions, and ion species affect the efficiency of the sympathetic cooling.

  11. A dark-line two-dimensional magneto-optical trap of 85Rb atoms with high optical depth.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Shanchao; Chen, J F; Liu, Chang; Zhou, Shuyu; Loy, M M T; Wong, G K L; Du, Shengwang

    2012-07-01

    We describe the apparatus of a dark-line two-dimensional (2D) magneto-optical trap (MOT) of (85)Rb cold atoms with high optical depth (OD). Different from the conventional configuration, two (of three) pairs of trapping laser beams in our 2D MOT setup do not follow the symmetry axes of the quadrupole magnetic field: they are aligned with 45° angles to the longitudinal axis. Two orthogonal repumping laser beams have a dark-line volume in the longitudinal axis at their cross over. With a total trapping laser power of 40 mW and repumping laser power of 18 mW, we obtain an atomic OD up to 160 in an electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) scheme, which corresponds to an atomic-density-length product NL = 2.05 × 10(15) m(-2). In a closed two-state system, the OD can become as large as more than 600. Our 2D MOT configuration allows full optical access of the atoms in its longitudinal direction without interfering with the trapping and repumping laser beams spatially. Moreover, the zero magnetic field along the longitudinal axis allows the cold atoms maintain a long ground-state coherence time without switching off the MOT magnetic field, which makes it possible to operate the MOT at a high repetition rate and a high duty cycle. Our 2D MOT is ideal for atomic-ensemble-based quantum optics applications, such as EIT, entangled photon pair generation, optical quantum memory, and quantum information processing.

  12. Semiclassical theory of sub-Doppler forces in an asymmetric magneto-optical trap with unequal laser detunings

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Noh, Heung-Ryoul; Jhe, Wonho

    We present a semiclassical theory of the sub-Doppler forces in an asymmetric magneto-optical trap where the trap-laser frequencies are unequal to one another. To solve the optical Bloch equations, which contain explicit time dependence, unlike in the symmetric case of equal laser detunings, we have developed a convenient and efficient method to calculate the atomic forces at various oscillating frequencies for each atomic density matrix element. In particular, the theory provides a qualitative understanding of the array of sub-Doppler traps (SDTs) recently observed in such an asymmetric trap. We find that the distances between SDTs are proportional to the relativemore » detuning differences, in good agreement with experimental results. The theory presented here can be applied to a dynamic system with multiple laser frequencies involved; the number of coupled equations to solve is much reduced and the resulting numerical calculation can be performed rather simply and efficiently.« less

  13. Cooling the center-of-mass motion of a diamond nanocrystal in a magneto-gravitational trap

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hsu, Jen-Feng

    A magneto-gravitational trap for micro/nanometer sized diamagnetic particles, such as diamond nanocrystals, is tested and characterized. After exploring various other systems, such as a suspended graphene beam and an optical trap, this magneto-gravitational nanomechanical trapping system for diamond with nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers presents unique advantages for experiments in fundamental quantum mechanics. Those include, for example, the generation of large quantum superposition states and tests of quantum gravity. Features are demonstrated for this system, such as stable and passive levitation from atmospheric pressure to high vacuum, low resonant frequencies and damping rates, and cooling of the center-of-mass motions to below 1 K. The construction of the trap, vacuum system, optics, and motion detection electronics are described in detail.

  14. Preparation of a high concentration of lithium-7 atoms in a magneto-optical trap

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Zelener, B. B., E-mail: bobozel@mail.ru; Saakyan, S. A.; Sautenkov, V. A.

    2014-11-15

    This study is aimed at obtaining high concentration of optically cooled lithium-7 atoms for preparing strongly interacting ultracold plasma and Rydberg matter. A special setup has been constructed, in which two high-power semiconductor lasers are used to cool lithium-7 atoms in a magneto-optical trap. At an optimum detuning of the cooling laser frequency and a magnetic field gradient of 35 G/cm, the concentration of ultracold lithium-7 atoms reaches about 10{sup 11} cm{sup −3}. Additional independent information about the concentration and number of ultracold lithium-7 atoms on different sublevels of the ground state was obtained by using of an additional probingmore » laser.« less

  15. Light desorption from an yttrium neutralizer for Rb and Fr magneto-optical trap loading

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Coppolaro, V.; Papi, N.; Khanbekyan, A.

    2014-10-07

    We present here the first evidence of photodesorption induced by low-intensity non-resonant light from an yttrium thin foil, which works as a neutralizer for Rb and Fr ions beam. Neutral atoms are suddenly ejected from the metal surface in a pulsed regime upon illumination with a broadband flash light and then released in the free volume of a pyrex cells. Here atoms are captured by a Magneto-Optical Trap (MOT), which is effectively loaded by the photodesorption. Loading times of the order of the flash rise time are measured. Desorption is also obtained in the continuous regime, by exploiting CW visiblemore » illumination of the metallic neutralizer surface. We demonstrate that at lower CW light intensities vacuum conditions are not perturbed by the photodesorption and hence the MOT dynamics remains unaffected, while the trap population increases thanks to the incoming desorbed atoms flux. Even with the Y foil at room temperature and hence with no trapped atoms, upon visible illumination, the number of trapped atoms reaches 10{sup 5}. The experimental data are then analyzed by means of an analytical rate equation model, which allows the analysis of this phenomenon and its dynamics and allows the determination of critical experimental parameters and the test of the procedure in the framework of radioactive Francium trapping. In this view, together with an extensive investigation of the phenomenon with {sup 85}Rb, the first demonstration of the photodesorption-aided loading of a {sup 210}Fr MOT is shown.« less

  16. A circularly polarized optical dipole trap and other developments in laser trapping of atoms

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Corwin, Kristan Lee

    Several innovations in laser trapping and cooling of alkali atoms are described. These topics share a common motivation to develop techniques for efficiently manipulating cold atoms. Such advances facilitate sensitive precision measurements such as parity non- conservation and 8-decay asymmetry in large trapped samples, even when only small quantities of the desired species are available. First, a cold, bright beam of Rb atoms is extracted from a magneto-optical trap (MOT) using a very simple technique. This beam has a flux of 5 × 109 atoms/s and a velocity of 14 m/s, and up to 70% of the atoms in the MOT were transferred to the atomic beam. Next, a highly efficient MOT for radioactive atoms is described, in which more than 50% of 221Fr atoms contained in a vapor cell are loaded into a MOT. Measurements were also made of the 221Fr 7 2P1/2 and 7 2P3/2 energies and hyperfine constants. To perform these experiments, two schemes for stabilizing the frequency of the light from a diode laser were developed and are described in detail. Finally, a new type of trap is described and a powerful cooling technique is demonstrated. The circularly polarized optical dipole trap provides large samples of highly spin-polarized atoms, suitable for many applications. Physical processes that govern the transfer of large numbers of atoms into the trap are described, and spin-polarization is measured to be 98(1)%. In addition, the trap breaks the degeneracy of the atomic spin states much like a magnetic trap does. This allows for RF and microwave cooling via both forced evaporation and a Sisyphus mechanism. Preliminary application of these techniques to the atoms in the circularly polarized dipole trap has successfully decreased the temperature by a factor of 4 while simultaneously increasing phase space density.

  17. All-optical atom trap as a target for MOTRIMS-like collision experiments

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sharma, S.; Acharya, B. P.; De Silva, A. H. N. C.; Parris, N. W.; Ramsey, B. J.; Romans, K. L.; Dorn, A.; de Jesus, V. L. B.; Fischer, D.

    2018-04-01

    Momentum-resolved scattering experiments with laser-cooled atomic targets have been performed since almost two decades with magneto-optical trap recoil ion momentum spectroscopy (MOTRIMS) setups. Compared to experiments with gas-jet targets, MOTRIMS features significantly lower target temperatures allowing for an excellent recoil ion momentum resolution. However, the coincident and momentum-resolved detection of electrons was long rendered impossible due to incompatible magnetic field requirements. Here we report on an experimental approach which is based on an all-optical 6Li atom trap that—in contrast to magneto-optical traps—does not require magnetic field gradients in the trapping region. Atom temperatures of about 2 mK and number densities up to 109 cm-3 make this trap ideally suited for momentum-resolved electron-ion coincidence experiments. The overall configuration of the trap is very similar to conventional magneto-optical traps. It mainly requires small modifications of laser beam geometries and polarization which makes it easily implementable in other existing MOTRIMS experiments.

  18. Alternative laser system for cesium magneto-optical trap via optical injection locking to sideband of a 9-GHz current-modulated diode laser.

    PubMed

    Diao, Wenting; He, Jun; Liu, Zhi; Yang, Baodong; Wang, Junmin

    2012-03-26

    By optical injection of an 852-nm extended-cavity diode laser (master laser) to lock the + 1-order sideband of a ~9-GHz-current-modulated diode laser (slave laser), we generate a pair of phase-locked lasers with a frequency difference up to ~9-GHz for a cesium (Cs) magneto-optical trap (MOT) with convenient tuning capability. For a cesium MOT, the master laser acts as repumping laser, locked to the Cs 6S₁/₂ (F = 3) - 6P₃/₂ (F' = 4) transition. When the + 1-order sideband of the 8.9536-GHz-current-modulated slave laser is optically injection-locked, the carrier operates on the Cs 6S₁/₂ (F = 4) - 6P₃/₂ (F' = 5) cooling cycle transition with -12 MHz detuning and acts as cooling/trapping laser. When carrying a 9.1926-GHz modulation signal, this phase-locked laser system can be applied in the fields of coherent population trapping and coherent manipulation of Cs atomic ground states.

  19. Creation of quantum-degenerate gases of ytterbium in a compact 2D-/3D-magneto-optical trap setup

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Doerscher, Soeren; Thobe, Alexander; Hundt, Bastian

    2013-04-15

    We report on the first experimental setup based on a 2D-/3D-magneto-optical trap (MOT) scheme to create both Bose-Einstein condensates and degenerate Fermi gases of several ytterbium isotopes. Our setup does not require a Zeeman slower and offers the flexibility to simultaneously produce ultracold samples of other atomic species. Furthermore, the extraordinary optical access favors future experiments in optical lattices. A 2D-MOT on the strong {sup 1}S{sub 0}{yields}{sup 1}P{sub 1} transition captures ytterbium directly from a dispenser of atoms and loads a 3D-MOT on the narrow {sup 1}S{sub 0}{yields}{sup 3}P{sub 1} intercombination transition. Subsequently, atoms are transferred to a crossed opticalmore » dipole trap and cooled evaporatively to quantum degeneracy.« less

  20. Magneto-optic current sensor

    DOEpatents

    Lanagan, Michael T.; Valsko-Vlasov, Vitalii K.; Fisher, Brandon L.; Welp, Ulrich

    2003-10-07

    An optical current transducer configured to sense current in the conductor is disclosed. The optical current transducer includes a light source and a polarizer that generates linearly polarized light received from a the light source. The light is communicated to a magneto-optic garnet that includes, among other elements, bismuth, iron and oxygen and is coupled to the conductor. The magneto-optic garnet is configured to rotate the polarization of the linearly polarized light received from the polarizer. The optical current transducer also includes an analyzer in optical communication with the magneto-optic garnet. The analyzer detects the rotation of the linearly polarized light caused by the magneto-optic garnet.

  1. Slowing techniques for loading a magneto-optical trap of CaF molecules

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Truppe, Stefan; Fitch, Noah; Williams, Hannah; Hambach, Moritz; Sauer, Ben; Hinds, Ed; Tarbutt, Mike

    2016-05-01

    Ultracold molecules in a magneto-optical trap (MOT) are useful for testing fundamental physics and studying strongly-interacting quantum systems. With experiments starting with a relatively fast (50-200 m/s) buffer-gas beam, a primary concern is decelerating molecules to below the MOT capture velocity, typically 10 m/s. Direct laser cooling, where the molecules are slowed via momentum transfer from a chirped counter-propagating narrowband laser, is a natural choice. However, chirping the cooling and repump lasers requires precise control of multiple laser frequencies simultaneously. Another approach, called ``white-light slowing'' uses a broadband laser such that all fast molecules in the beam are decelerated. By addressing numerous velocities no chirping is needed. Unfortunately, both techniques have significant losses as molecules are transversely heated during the optical cycling. Ideally, the slowing method would provide simultaneous deceleration and transverse guiding. A newly developed technique, called Zeeman-Sisyphus deceleration, is potentially capable of both. Using permanent magnets and optical pumping, the number of scattered photons is reduced, lessening transverse heating and relaxing the repump requirements. Here we compare all three options for CaF.

  2. Development of a Strontium Magneto-Optical Trap for Probing Casimir-Polder Potentials

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Martin, Paul J.

    In recent years, cold atoms have been the centerpiece of many remarkably sensitive measurements, and much effort has been made to devise miniaturized quantum sensors and quantum information processing devices. At small distances, however, mechanical effects of the quantum vacuum begin to significantly impact the behavior of the cold-atom systems. A better understanding of how surface composition and geometry affect Casimir and Casimir-Polder potentials would benefit future engineering of small-scale devices. Unfortunately, theoretical solutions are limited and the number of experimental techniques that can accurately detect such short-range forces is relatively small. We believe the exemplary properties of atomic strontium--which have enabled unprecedented frequency metrology in optical lattice clocks--make it an ideal candidate for probing slight spectroscopic perturbations caused by vacuum fluctuations. To that end, we have constructed a magneto-optical trap for strontium to enable future study of atom-surface potentials, and the apparatus and proposed detection scheme are discussed herein. Of special note is a passively stable external-cavity diode laser we developed that is both affordable and competitive with high-end commercial options.

  3. Enhancement of the transverse magneto-optical Kerr effect via resonant tunneling in trilayers containing magneto-optical metals

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Girón-Sedas, J. A.; Centro de Investigación e Innovación en Bioinformática y Fotónica - CIBioFI, AA 25360 Cali; Mejía-Salazar, J. R., E-mail: jrmejia3146@gmail.com

    We propose a way to enhance the transverse magneto-optical Kerr effect, by the excitation of resonant tunneling modes, in subwavelength trilayer structures featuring a dielectric slab sandwiched between two magneto-optical metallic layers. Depending on the magneto-optical layer widths, the proposed system may exhibit an extraordinary transverse magneto-optical Kerr effect, which makes it very attractive for the design and engineering of thin-film magneto-optical-based devices for future photonic circuits or fiber optical-communication systems.

  4. An atomic beam source for fast loading of a magneto-optical trap under high vacuum

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    McDowall, Peter D.; Gruenzweig, Tzahi; Hilliard, Andrew

    2012-05-15

    We report on a directional atomic beam created using an alkali metal dispenser and a nozzle. By applying a high current (15 A) pulse to the dispenser at room temperature we can rapidly heat it to a temperature at which it starts dispensing, avoiding the need for preheating. The atomic beam produced is capable of loading 90% of a magneto-optical trap (MOT) in less than 7 s while maintaining a low vacuum pressure of <10{sup -11} Torr. The transverse velocity components of the atomic beam are measured to be within typical capture velocities of a rubidium MOT. Finally, we showmore » that the atomic beam can be turned off within 1.8 s.« less

  5. Contributed Review: The feasibility of a fully miniaturized magneto-optical trap for portable ultracold quantum technology.

    PubMed

    Rushton, J A; Aldous, M; Himsworth, M D

    2014-12-01

    Experiments using laser cooled atoms and ions show real promise for practical applications in quantum-enhanced metrology, timing, navigation, and sensing as well as exotic roles in quantum computing, networking, and simulation. The heart of many of these experiments has been translated to microfabricated platforms known as atom chips whose construction readily lend themselves to integration with larger systems and future mass production. To truly make the jump from laboratory demonstrations to practical, rugged devices, the complex surrounding infrastructure (including vacuum systems, optics, and lasers) also needs to be miniaturized and integrated. In this paper we explore the feasibility of applying this approach to the Magneto-Optical Trap; incorporating the vacuum system, atom source and optical geometry into a permanently sealed micro-litre system capable of maintaining 10(-10) mbar for more than 1000 days of operation with passive pumping alone. We demonstrate such an engineering challenge is achievable using recent advances in semiconductor microfabrication techniques and materials.

  6. Contributed Review: The feasibility of a fully miniaturized magneto-optical trap for portable ultracold quantum technology

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Rushton, J. A.; Aldous, M.; Himsworth, M. D.

    2014-12-01

    Experiments using laser cooled atoms and ions show real promise for practical applications in quantum-enhanced metrology, timing, navigation, and sensing as well as exotic roles in quantum computing, networking, and simulation. The heart of many of these experiments has been translated to microfabricated platforms known as atom chips whose construction readily lend themselves to integration with larger systems and future mass production. To truly make the jump from laboratory demonstrations to practical, rugged devices, the complex surrounding infrastructure (including vacuum systems, optics, and lasers) also needs to be miniaturized and integrated. In this paper we explore the feasibility of applying this approach to the Magneto-Optical Trap; incorporating the vacuum system, atom source and optical geometry into a permanently sealed micro-litre system capable of maintaining 10-10 mbar for more than 1000 days of operation with passive pumping alone. We demonstrate such an engineering challenge is achievable using recent advances in semiconductor microfabrication techniques and materials.

  7. Contributed Review: The feasibility of a fully miniaturized magneto-optical trap for portable ultracold quantum technology

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Rushton, J. A.; Aldous, M.; Himsworth, M. D., E-mail: m.d.himsworth@soton.ac.uk

    2014-12-15

    Experiments using laser cooled atoms and ions show real promise for practical applications in quantum-enhanced metrology, timing, navigation, and sensing as well as exotic roles in quantum computing, networking, and simulation. The heart of many of these experiments has been translated to microfabricated platforms known as atom chips whose construction readily lend themselves to integration with larger systems and future mass production. To truly make the jump from laboratory demonstrations to practical, rugged devices, the complex surrounding infrastructure (including vacuum systems, optics, and lasers) also needs to be miniaturized and integrated. In this paper we explore the feasibility of applyingmore » this approach to the Magneto-Optical Trap; incorporating the vacuum system, atom source and optical geometry into a permanently sealed micro-litre system capable of maintaining 10{sup −10} mbar for more than 1000 days of operation with passive pumping alone. We demonstrate such an engineering challenge is achievable using recent advances in semiconductor microfabrication techniques and materials.« less

  8. Spectroscopy of the three-photon laser excitation of cold Rubidium Rydberg atoms in a magneto-optical trap

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Entin, V. M.; Yakshina, E. A.; Tretyakov, D. B.

    2013-05-15

    The spectra of the three-photon laser excitation 5S{sub 1/2} {yields} 5P{sub 3/2} {yields} 6S{sub 1/2}nP of cold Rb Rydberg atoms in an operating magneto-optical trap based on continuous single-frequency lasers at each stage are studied. These spectra contain two partly overlapping peaks of different amplitudes, which correspond to coherent three-photon excitation and incoherent three-step excitation due to the presence of two different ways of excitation through the dressed states of intermediate levels. A four-level theoretical model based on optical Bloch equations is developed to analyze these spectra. Good agreement between the experimental and calculated data is achieved by introducing additionalmore » decay of optical coherence induced by a finite laser line width and other broadening sources (stray electromagnetic fields, residual Doppler broadening, interatomic interactions) into the model.« less

  9. A portable magneto-optical trap with prospects for atom interferometry in civil engineering

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hinton, A.; Perea-Ortiz, M.; Winch, J.; Briggs, J.; Freer, S.; Moustoukas, D.; Powell-Gill, S.; Squire, C.; Lamb, A.; Rammeloo, C.; Stray, B.; Voulazeris, G.; Zhu, L.; Kaushik, A.; Lien, Y.-H.; Niggebaum, A.; Rodgers, A.; Stabrawa, A.; Boddice, D.; Plant, S. R.; Tuckwell, G. W.; Bongs, K.; Metje, N.; Holynski, M.

    2017-06-01

    The high precision and scalable technology offered by atom interferometry has the opportunity to profoundly affect gravity surveys, enabling the detection of features of either smaller size or greater depth. While such systems are already starting to enter into the commercial market, significant reductions are required in order to reach the size, weight and power of conventional devices. In this article, the potential for atom interferometry based gravimetry is assessed, suggesting that the key opportunity resides within the development of gravity gradiometry sensors to enable drastic improvements in measurement time. To push forward in realizing more compact systems, techniques have been pursued to realize a highly portable magneto-optical trap system, which represents the core package of an atom interferometry system. This can create clouds of 107 atoms within a system package of 20 l and 10 kg, consuming 80 W of power. This article is part of the themed issue 'Quantum technology for the 21st century'.

  10. A portable magneto-optical trap with prospects for atom interferometry in civil engineering

    PubMed Central

    Perea-Ortiz, M.; Winch, J.; Briggs, J.; Freer, S.; Moustoukas, D.; Powell-Gill, S.; Squire, C.; Lamb, A.; Rammeloo, C.; Stray, B.; Voulazeris, G.; Zhu, L.; Kaushik, A.; Lien, Y.-H.; Niggebaum, A.; Rodgers, A.; Stabrawa, A.; Boddice, D.; Plant, S. R.; Tuckwell, G. W.; Bongs, K.; Metje, N.; Holynski, M.

    2017-01-01

    The high precision and scalable technology offered by atom interferometry has the opportunity to profoundly affect gravity surveys, enabling the detection of features of either smaller size or greater depth. While such systems are already starting to enter into the commercial market, significant reductions are required in order to reach the size, weight and power of conventional devices. In this article, the potential for atom interferometry based gravimetry is assessed, suggesting that the key opportunity resides within the development of gravity gradiometry sensors to enable drastic improvements in measurement time. To push forward in realizing more compact systems, techniques have been pursued to realize a highly portable magneto-optical trap system, which represents the core package of an atom interferometry system. This can create clouds of 107 atoms within a system package of 20 l and 10 kg, consuming 80 W of power. This article is part of the themed issue ‘Quantum technology for the 21st century’. PMID:28652493

  11. A portable magneto-optical trap with prospects for atom interferometry in civil engineering.

    PubMed

    Hinton, A; Perea-Ortiz, M; Winch, J; Briggs, J; Freer, S; Moustoukas, D; Powell-Gill, S; Squire, C; Lamb, A; Rammeloo, C; Stray, B; Voulazeris, G; Zhu, L; Kaushik, A; Lien, Y-H; Niggebaum, A; Rodgers, A; Stabrawa, A; Boddice, D; Plant, S R; Tuckwell, G W; Bongs, K; Metje, N; Holynski, M

    2017-08-06

    The high precision and scalable technology offered by atom interferometry has the opportunity to profoundly affect gravity surveys, enabling the detection of features of either smaller size or greater depth. While such systems are already starting to enter into the commercial market, significant reductions are required in order to reach the size, weight and power of conventional devices. In this article, the potential for atom interferometry based gravimetry is assessed, suggesting that the key opportunity resides within the development of gravity gradiometry sensors to enable drastic improvements in measurement time. To push forward in realizing more compact systems, techniques have been pursued to realize a highly portable magneto-optical trap system, which represents the core package of an atom interferometry system. This can create clouds of 10 7 atoms within a system package of 20 l and 10 kg, consuming 80 W of power.This article is part of the themed issue 'Quantum technology for the 21st century'. © 2017 The Author(s).

  12. Detection system for a β^+ - ν correlation experiment in a magneto-optical trap

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Melconian, D.; Gorelov, A.; Trinczek, M.; D'Auria, J. M.; Dubé, P.; Giesen, U.; Häusser, O.; Swanson, T.; Ball, G.; Behr, J. A.; Buchmann, L.; Dombsky, M.; Jackson, K. P.; Schmid, J.; Dilling, J.; Alford, W. P.; Wong, W.

    1998-10-01

    Experiments with magneto-optically trapped ^38mK at TRIUMF are currently underway that use a micro-channel plate (MCP) and β telescope to observe the recoiling Ar and β^+ respectively. The β telescope consists of a 5.5cm diameter x 6.5cm BC408 plastic scintillator mounted behind an X-Y position sensitive double-sided Si-strip detector (PSD). Coincidences between the ΔE and E detectors allow an efficient veto of γ backgrounds and provide 1mm spatial resolution of the detected positron. The scintillator was designed with the aid of monte carlo simulations for minimized lineshape tail and uniformity of response to E_β^+ and position, resulting in fracΔ EE = 9.7 % at 1.6MeV. This energy measurement, the < 1ns relative timing between the MCP and scintillator, and the position information from the MCP and PSD together provide overdetermined kinematic information, useful for rejecting backgrounds and assessing systematic errors.

  13. Characterization of Cs vapor cell coated with octadecyltrichlorosilane using coherent population trapping spectroscopy

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Hafiz, Moustafa Abdel; Maurice, Vincent; Chutani, Ravinder

    2015-05-14

    We report the realization and characterization using coherent population trapping (CPT) spectroscopy of an octadecyltrichlorosilane (OTS)-coated centimeter-scale Cs vapor cell. The dual-structure of the resonance lineshape, with presence of a narrow structure line at the top of a Doppler-broadened structure, is clearly observed. The linewidth of the narrow resonance is compared to the linewidth of an evacuated Cs cell and of a buffer gas Cs cell of similar size. The Cs-OTS adsorption energy is measured to be (0.42 ± 0.03) eV, leading to a clock frequency shift rate of 2.7 × 10{sup −9}/K in fractional unit. A hyperfine population lifetime, T{sub 1}, and amore » microwave coherence lifetime, T{sub 2}, of 1.6 and 0.5 ms are reported, corresponding to about 37 and 12 useful bounces, respectively. Atomic-motion induced Ramsey narrowing of dark resonances is observed in Cs-OTS cells by reducing the optical beam diameter. Ramsey CPT fringes are detected using a pulsed CPT interrogation scheme. Potential applications of the Cs-OTS cell to the development of a vapor cell atomic clock are discussed.« less

  14. Dark optical lattice of ring traps for cold atoms

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Courtade, Emmanuel; Houde, Olivier; Clément, Jean-François; Verkerk, Philippe; Hennequin, Daniel

    2006-09-01

    We propose an optical lattice for cold atoms made of a one-dimensional stack of dark ring traps. It is obtained through the interference pattern of a standard Gaussian beam with a counterpropagating hollow beam obtained using a setup with two conical lenses. The traps of the resulting lattice are characterized by a high confinement and a filling rate much larger than unity, even if loaded with cold atoms from a magneto-optical trap. We have implemented this system experimentally, and demonstrated its feasibility. Applications in statistical physics, quantum computing, and Bose-Einstein condensate dynamics are conceivable.

  15. The properties of RE-TM magneto-optical films

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lee, Z. Y.; Miao, X. S.; Zhu, P.; Hu, Y. S.; Wan, D. F.; Dai, D. W.; Chen, S. B.; Lin, G. Q.

    1992-09-01

    In this paper, the magnetic, magneto-optical and galvonomagnetic properties, and their temperature dependence for LRE-TM SmCo, SmCoDy and HRE-TM TbFeCo magneto-optical films as high density recording media prepared by rf magnetron sputtering or evaporation are reported. By adding Dy to SmCo thin film, the SmCoDy thin film is more suitable for magneto-optical recording, its domain size being below 0.63 μm. The Kerr enhancement and corrosion protective effects of AIN and AlSiN for optimum design of the multi-layer structure of magneto-optical disk are described. The instruments of measuring the magneto-optical Kerr effect and magneto-optical recording domain characteristics of thin films are reviewed.

  16. Optical trapping and propulsion of red blood cells on waveguide surfaces.

    PubMed

    Ahluwalia, Balpreet Singh; McCourt, Peter; Huser, Thomas; Hellesø, Olav Gaute

    2010-09-27

    We have studied optical trapping and propulsion of red blood cells in the evanescent field of optical waveguides. Cell propulsion is found to be highly dependent on the biological medium and serum proteins the cells are submerged in. Waveguides made of tantalum pentoxide are shown to be efficient for cell propulsion. An optical propulsion velocity of up to 
6 µm/s on a waveguide with a width of ~6 µm is reported. Stable optical trapping and propulsion of cells during transverse flow is also reported.

  17. Near-Field Magneto-Optical Microscope

    DOEpatents

    Vlasko-Vlasov, Vitalii; Welp, Ulrich; and Crabtree, George W.

    2005-12-06

    A device and method for mapping magnetic fields of a sample at a resolution less than the wavelength of light without altering the magnetic field of the sample is disclosed. A device having a tapered end portion with a magneto-optically active particle positioned at the distal end thereof in communication with a fiber optic for transferring incoming linearly polarized light from a source thereof to the particle and for transferring reflected light from the particle is provided. The fiber optic has a reflective material trapping light within the fiber optic and in communication with a light detector for determining the polarization of light reflected from the particle as a function of the strength and direction of the magnetic field of the sample. Linearly polarized light from the source thereof transferred to the particle positioned proximate the sample is affected by the magnetic field of the sample sensed by the particle such that the difference in polarization of light entering and leaving the particle is due to the magnetic field of the sample. Relative movement between the particle and sample enables mapping.

  18. Near Field Magneto-Optical Microscope

    DOEpatents

    Vlasko-Vlasov, Vitalii K.; Welp, Ulrich; Crabtree, George W.

    2005-12-06

    A device and method for mapping magnetic fields of a sample at a resolution less than the wavelength of light without altering the magnetic field of the sample is disclosed. A device having a tapered end portion with a magneto-optically active particle positioned at the distal end thereof in communication with a fiber optic for transferring incoming linearly polarized light from a source thereof to the particle and for transferring reflected light from the particle is provided. The fiber optic has a reflective material trapping light within the fiber optic and in communication with a light detector for determining the polarization of light reflected from the particle as a function of the strength and direction of the magnetic field of the sample. Linearly polarized light from the source thereof transferred to the particle positioned proximate the sample is affected by the magnetic field of the sample sensed by the particle such that the difference in polarization of light entering and leaving the particle is due to the magnetic field of the sample. Relative movement between the particle and sample enables mapping.

  19. A Novel Gravito-Optical Surface Trap for Neutral Atoms

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xie, Chun-Xia; Wang, Zhengling; Yin, Jian-Ping

    2006-04-01

    We propose a novel gravito-optical surface trap (GOST) for neutral atoms based on one-dimensional intensity gradient cooling. The surface optical trap is composed of a blue-detuned reduced semi-Gaussian laser beam (SGB), a far-blue-detuned dark hollow beam and the gravity field. The SGB is produced by the diffraction of a collimated Gaussian laser beam passing through the straight edge of a semi-infinite opaque plate and then is reduced by an imaging lens. We calculate the intensity distribution of the reduced SGB, and study the dynamic process of the SGB intensity-gradient induced Sisyphus cooling for 87Rb atoms by using Monte Carlo simulations. Our study shows that the proposed GOST can be used not only to trap cold atoms loaded from a standard magneto-optical trap, but also to cool the trapped atoms to an equilibrium temperature of 3.47 μK from ~120 μK, even to realize an all-optical two-dimensional Bose-Einstein condensation by using optical-potential evaporative cooling.

  20. Zno Micro/Nanostructures Grown on Sapphire Substrates Using Low-Temperature Vapor-Trapped Thermal Chemical Vapor Deposition: Structural and Optical Properties.

    PubMed

    Hu, Po-Sheng; Wu, Cheng-En; Chen, Guan-Lin

    2017-12-21

    In this research, the Zn(C₅H₇O₂)₂·xH₂O-based growth of ZnO micro/nanostructures in a low temperature, vapor-trapped chemical vapor deposition system was attempted to optimize structural and optical properties for potential biomedical applications. By trapping in-flow gas molecules and Zinc vapor inside a chamber tube by partially obstructing a chamber outlet, a high pressure condition can be achieved, and this experimental setup has the advantages of ease of synthesis, being a low temperature process, and cost effectiveness. Empirically, the growth process proceeded under a chamber condition of an atmospheric pressure of 730 torr, a controlled volume flow rate of input gas, N₂/O₂, of 500/500 Standard Cubic Centimeters per Minute (SCCM), and a designated oven temperature of 500 °C. Specifically, the dependence of structural and optical properties of the structures on growth duration and spatially dependent temperature were investigated utilizing scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), photoluminescence (PL), and ultraviolet-visible transmission spectroscopy. The experimental results indicate that the grown thin film observed with hexagonal structures and higher structural uniformity enables more prominent structural and optical signatures. XRD spectra present the dominant peaks along crystal planes of (002) and (101) as the main direction of crystallization. In addition, while the structures excited with laser wavelength of 325 nm emit a signature radiation around 380 nm, an ultraviolet lamp with a wavelength of 254 nm revealed distinctive photoluminescence peaks at 363.96 nm and 403.52 nm, elucidating different degrees of structural correlation as functions of growth duration and the spatial gradient of temperature. Transmittance spectra of the structures illustrate typical variation in the wavelength range of 200 nm to 400 nm, and its structural correlation is less significant when compared with PL.

  1. Zno Micro/Nanostructures Grown on Sapphire Substrates Using Low-Temperature Vapor-Trapped Thermal Chemical Vapor Deposition: Structural and Optical Properties

    PubMed Central

    Hu, Po-Sheng; Wu, Cheng-En; Chen, Guan-Lin

    2017-01-01

    In this research, the Zn(C5H7O2)2·xH2O-based growth of ZnO micro/nanostructures in a low temperature, vapor-trapped chemical vapor deposition system was attempted to optimize structural and optical properties for potential biomedical applications. By trapping in-flow gas molecules and Zinc vapor inside a chamber tube by partially obstructing a chamber outlet, a high pressure condition can be achieved, and this experimental setup has the advantages of ease of synthesis, being a low temperature process, and cost effectiveness. Empirically, the growth process proceeded under a chamber condition of an atmospheric pressure of 730 torr, a controlled volume flow rate of input gas, N2/O2, of 500/500 Standard Cubic Centimeters per Minute (SCCM), and a designated oven temperature of 500 °C. Specifically, the dependence of structural and optical properties of the structures on growth duration and spatially dependent temperature were investigated utilizing scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), photoluminescence (PL), and ultraviolet-visible transmission spectroscopy. The experimental results indicate that the grown thin film observed with hexagonal structures and higher structural uniformity enables more prominent structural and optical signatures. XRD spectra present the dominant peaks along crystal planes of (002) and (101) as the main direction of crystallization. In addition, while the structures excited with laser wavelength of 325 nm emit a signature radiation around 380 nm, an ultraviolet lamp with a wavelength of 254 nm revealed distinctive photoluminescence peaks at 363.96 nm and 403.52 nm, elucidating different degrees of structural correlation as functions of growth duration and the spatial gradient of temperature. Transmittance spectra of the structures illustrate typical variation in the wavelength range of 200 nm to 400 nm, and its structural correlation is less significant when compared with PL. PMID:29267196

  2. Magneto-optical non-reciprocal devices in silicon photonics

    PubMed Central

    Shoji, Yuya; Mizumoto, Tetsuya

    2014-01-01

    Silicon waveguide optical non-reciprocal devices based on the magneto-optical effect are reviewed. The non-reciprocal phase shift caused by the first-order magneto-optical effect is effective in realizing optical non-reciprocal devices in silicon waveguide platforms. In a silicon-on-insulator waveguide, the low refractive index of the buried oxide layer enhances the magneto-optical phase shift, which reduces the device footprints. A surface activated direct bonding technique was developed to integrate a magneto-optical garnet crystal on the silicon waveguides. A silicon waveguide optical isolator based on the magneto-optical phase shift was demonstrated with an optical isolation of 30 dB and insertion loss of 13 dB at a wavelength of 1548 nm. Furthermore, a four port optical circulator was demonstrated with maximum isolations of 15.3 and 9.3 dB in cross and bar ports, respectively, at a wavelength of 1531 nm. PMID:27877640

  3. Magneto-optical rotation in cavity QED with Zeeman coherence

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sun, Hui; Jia, Xiaohua; Fan, Shuangli; Zhang, Hongjun; Guo, Hong

    2018-06-01

    We investigate theoretically the magneto-optical rotation in cavity QED system with atomic Zeeman coherence, which is established via coherent population trapping. Owing to Zeeman coherence, the ultranarrow transmission spectrum less than 1 MHz with gain can be achieved with a flat-top Faraday rotation angle. By controlling the parameters appropriately, the input probe components within the flat-top regime rotate with almost the same angle, and transmit through the cavity perpendicularly to the other components outside the flat-top regime. The concepts discussed here provide an important tool for perfect ultranarrow Faraday optical filter and quantum information processing.

  4. Magneto-Optical Thin Films for On-Chip Monolithic Integration of Non-Reciprocal Photonic Devices

    PubMed Central

    Bi, Lei; Hu, Juejun; Jiang, Peng; Kim, Hyun Suk; Kim, Dong Hun; Onbasli, Mehmet Cengiz; Dionne, Gerald F.; Ross, Caroline A.

    2013-01-01

    Achieving monolithic integration of nonreciprocal photonic devices on semiconductor substrates has been long sought by the photonics research society. One way to achieve this goal is to deposit high quality magneto-optical oxide thin films on a semiconductor substrate. In this paper, we review our recent research activity on magneto-optical oxide thin films toward the goal of monolithic integration of nonreciprocal photonic devices on silicon. We demonstrate high Faraday rotation at telecommunication wavelengths in several novel magnetooptical oxide thin films including Co substituted CeO2−δ, Co- or Fe-substituted SrTiO3−δ, as well as polycrystalline garnets on silicon. Figures of merit of 3~4 deg/dB and 21 deg/dB are achieved in epitaxial Sr(Ti0.2Ga0.4Fe0.4)O3−δ and polycrystalline (CeY2)Fe5O12 films, respectively. We also demonstrate an optical isolator on silicon, based on a racetrack resonator using polycrystalline (CeY2)Fe5O12/silicon strip-loaded waveguides. Our work demonstrates that physical vapor deposited magneto-optical oxide thin films on silicon can achieve high Faraday rotation, low optical loss and high magneto-optical figure of merit, therefore enabling novel high-performance non-reciprocal photonic devices monolithically integrated on semiconductor substrates. PMID:28788379

  5. Cooling the Motion of Diamond Nanocrystals in a Magneto-Gravitational Trap in High Vacuum.

    PubMed

    Hsu, Jen-Feng; Ji, Peng; Lewandowski, Charles W; D'Urso, Brian

    2016-07-22

    Levitated diamond nanocrystals with nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centres in high vacuum have been proposed as a unique system for experiments in fundamental quantum mechanics, including the generation of large quantum superposition states and tests of quantum gravity. This system promises extreme isolation from its environment while providing quantum control and sensing through the NV centre spin. While optical trapping has been the most explored method of levitation, recent results indicate that excessive optical heating of the nanodiamonds under vacuum may make the method impractical with currently available materials. Here, we study an alternative magneto-gravitational trap for diamagnetic particles, such as diamond nanocrystals, with stable levitation from atmospheric pressure to high vacuum. Magnetic field gradients from permanent magnets confine the particle in two dimensions, while confinement in the third dimension is gravitational. We demonstrate that feedback cooling of the centre-of-mass motion of a trapped nanodiamond cluster results in cooling of one degree of freedom to less than 1 K.

  6. Cooling the motion of diamond nanocrystals in a magneto-gravitational trap in high vacuum

    DOE PAGES

    Hsu, Jen -Feng; Ji, Peng; Lewandowski, Charles W.; ...

    2016-07-22

    Levitated diamond nanocrystals with nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centres in high vacuum have been proposed as a unique system for experiments in fundamental quantum mechanics, including the generation of large quantum superposition states and tests of quantum gravity. This system promises extreme isolation from its environment while providing quantum control and sensing through the NV centre spin. While optical trapping has been the most explored method of levitation, recent results indicate that excessive optical heating of the nanodiamonds under vacuum may make the method impractical with currently available materials. Here, we study an alternative magneto-gravitational trap for diamagnetic particles, such as diamondmore » nanocrystals, with stable levitation from atmospheric pressure to high vacuum. Magnetic field gradients from permanent magnets confine the particle in two dimensions, while confinement in the third dimension is gravitational. Furthermore, we demonstrate that feedback cooling of the centre-of-mass motion of a trapped nanodiamond cluster results in cooling of one degree of freedom to less than 1 K.« less

  7. Cooling the Motion of Diamond Nanocrystals in a Magneto-Gravitational Trap in High Vacuum

    PubMed Central

    Hsu, Jen-Feng; Ji, Peng; Lewandowski, Charles W.; D’Urso, Brian

    2016-01-01

    Levitated diamond nanocrystals with nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centres in high vacuum have been proposed as a unique system for experiments in fundamental quantum mechanics, including the generation of large quantum superposition states and tests of quantum gravity. This system promises extreme isolation from its environment while providing quantum control and sensing through the NV centre spin. While optical trapping has been the most explored method of levitation, recent results indicate that excessive optical heating of the nanodiamonds under vacuum may make the method impractical with currently available materials. Here, we study an alternative magneto-gravitational trap for diamagnetic particles, such as diamond nanocrystals, with stable levitation from atmospheric pressure to high vacuum. Magnetic field gradients from permanent magnets confine the particle in two dimensions, while confinement in the third dimension is gravitational. We demonstrate that feedback cooling of the centre-of-mass motion of a trapped nanodiamond cluster results in cooling of one degree of freedom to less than 1 K. PMID:27444654

  8. Optical storage with electromagnetically induced transparency in cold atoms at a high optical depth

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Shanchao; Zhou, Shuyu; Liu, Chang; Chen, J. F.; Wen, Jianming; Loy, M. M. T.; Wong, G. K. L.; Du, Shengwang

    2012-06-01

    We report experimental demonstration of efficient optical storage with electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) in a dense cold ^85Rb atomic ensemble trapped in a two-dimensional magneto-optical trap. By varying the optical depth (OD) from 0 to 140, we observe that the optimal storage efficiency for coherent optical pulses has a saturation value of 50% as OD > 50. Our result is consistent with that obtained from hot vapor cell experiments which suggest that a four-wave mixing nonlinear process degrades the EIT storage coherence and efficiency. We apply this EIT quantum memory for narrow-band single photons with controllable waveforms, and obtain an optimal storage efficiency of 49±3% for single-photon wave packets. This is the highest single-photon storage efficiency reported up to today and brings the EIT atomic quantum memory close to practical application because an efficiency of above 50% is necessary to operate the memory within non-cloning regime and beat the classical limit.

  9. The Magneto-optical Filter, Working Principles and Recent Progress

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Cacciani, A.; Rhodes, E. J., Jr.

    1984-01-01

    The Magneto-Optical Filter is described which allows simultaneous magnetic and velocity measurements (in both imaging and non-imaging modes) without the need for a spectrograph. In this way the stability and alignment problems of the spectrograph are completely overcome. Its major advantages are: wavelength absolute reference and stability, high signal to noise ratio and independence of the transmission profile from the incidence angle of the solar beam. It is an imaging instrument allowing high wave number analysis in the solar oscillation spectrum and a continuous monitoring of the image position through the chromospheric facular structures. The apparatus in use at Mt. Wilson is assembled in a modular form. The most important part of it is a glass cell containing the sodium vapor. The filter is easy to use but the cell is not easy to construct in an optimal way. The technology is in progress both to use Na and K together and to prevent the windows from becoming coated during a long-term operation.

  10. Elastic light scattering from single cells: orientational dynamics in optical trap.

    PubMed

    Watson, Dakota; Hagen, Norbert; Diver, Jonathan; Marchand, Philippe; Chachisvilis, Mirianas

    2004-08-01

    Light-scattering diagrams (phase functions) from single living cells and beads suspended in an optical trap were recorded with 30-ms time resolution. The intensity of the scattered light was recorded over an angular range of 0.5-179.5 degrees using an optical setup based on an elliptical mirror and rotating aperture. Experiments revealed that light-scattering diagrams from biological cells exhibit significant and complex time dependence. We have attributed this dependence to the cell's orientational dynamics within the trap. We have also used experimentally measured phase function information to calculate the time dependence of the optical radiation pressure force on the trapped particle and show how it changes depending on the orientation of the particle. Relevance of these experiments to potential improvement in the sensitivity of label-free flow cytometry is discussed.

  11. Toward a High-Stability Coherent Population Trapping Cs Vapor-Cell Atomic Clock Using Autobalanced Ramsey Spectroscopy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Abdel Hafiz, Moustafa; Coget, Grégoire; Petersen, Michael; Rocher, Cyrus; Guérandel, Stéphane; Zanon-Willette, Thomas; de Clercq, Emeric; Boudot, Rodolphe

    2018-06-01

    Vapor-cell atomic clocks are widely appreciated for their excellent short-term fractional frequency stability and their compactness. However, they are known to suffer on medium and long time scales from significant frequency instabilities, generally attributed to light-induced frequency-shift effects. In order to tackle this limitation, we investigate the application of the recently proposed autobalanced Ramsey (ABR) interrogation protocol onto a pulsed hot-vapor Cs vapor-cell clock based on coherent population trapping (CPT). We demonstrate that the ABR protocol, developed initially to probe the one-photon resonance of quantum optical clocks, can be successfully applied to a two-photon CPT resonance. The applied method, based on the alternation of two successive Ramsey-CPT sequences with unequal free-evolution times and the subsequent management of two interconnected phase and frequency servo loops, is found to allow a relevant reduction of the clock-frequency sensitivity to laser-power variations. This original ABR-CPT approach, combined with the implementation of advanced electronics laser-power stabilization systems, yields the demonstration of a CPT-based Cs vapor-cell clock with a short-term fractional frequency stability at the level of 3.1×10 -13τ-1 /2 , averaging down to the level of 6 ×10-15 at 2000-s integration time. These encouraging performances demonstrate that the use of the ABR interrogation protocol is a promising option towards the development of high-stability CPT-based frequency standards. Such clocks could be attractive candidates in numerous applications including next-generation satellite-based navigation systems, secure communications, instrumentation, or defense systems.

  12. Characterization of magneto-optical media

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hajjar, Roger A.; Wu, Te-Ho; Mansuripur, M.

    1991-01-01

    Amorphous rare earth-transition metal (RE-TM) alloys and compositionally modulated TM/TM films were characterized in terms of their magnetic, magneto-optic, and galvanomagnetic properties. The loop tracer, vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), and Rutherford Backscattering (RBS) facility were used to characterize and analyze the various properties of these magneto-optical storage media. Kerr effect, ellipticity, coercivity, and anisotropy at various temperatures, magnetoresistance, and resistivity are among the properties measured in Co/Pt films, Co/Pd films, and TbFeCo films.

  13. Investigation of HIV-1 infected and uninfected cells using the optical trapping technique

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ombinda-Lemboumba, S.; Malabi, R.; Lugongolo, M. Y.; Thobakgale, S. L.; Manoto, S.; Mthunzi-Kufa, P.

    2017-02-01

    Optical trapping has emerged as an essential tool for manipulating single biological material and performing sophisticated spectroscopy analysis on individual cell. The optical trapping technique has been used to grab and immobilize cells from a tightly focused laser beam emitted through a high numerical aperture objective lens. Coupling optical trapping with other technologies is possible and allows stable sample trapping, while also facilitating molecular, chemical and spectroscopic analysis. For this reason, we are exploring laser trapping combined with laser spectroscopy as a potential non-invasive method of interrogating individual cells with a high degree of specificity in terms of information generated. Thus, for the delivery of as much pathological information as possible, we use a home-build optical trapping and spectroscopy system for real time probing human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) infected and uninfected single cells. Briefly, our experimental rig comprises an infrared continuous wave laser at 1064 nm with power output of 1.5 W, a 100X high numerical aperture oil-immersion microscope objective used to capture and immobilise individual cell samples as well as an excitation source. Spectroscopy spectral patterns obtained by the 1064 nm laser beam excitation provide information on HIV-1 infected and uninfected cells. We present these preliminary findings which may be valuable for the development of an HIV-1 point of care detection system.

  14. Cell identification using Raman spectroscopy in combination with optical trapping and microfluidics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Krafft, Christoph; Dochow, Sebastian; Beleites, Claudia; Popp, Jürgen

    2014-03-01

    Cell identification by Raman spectroscopy has evolved to be an attractive complement to established optical techniques. Raman activated cell sorting (RACS) offers prospects to complement the widely applied fluorescence activated cell sorting. RACS can be realized by combination with optical traps and microfluidic devices. The progress of RACS is reported for a cellular model system that can be found in peripheral blood of tumor patients. Lymphocytes and erythrocytes were extracted from blood samples. Breast carcinoma derived tumor cells (MCF-7, BT-20) and acute myeloid leukemia cells (OCI-AML3) were grown in cell cultures. First, Raman images were collected from dried cells on calcium fluoride slides. Support vector machines (SVM) classified 99.7% of the spectra to the correct cell type. Second, a 785 nm laser was used for optical trapping of single cells in aqueous buffer and for excitation of the Raman spectrum. SVM distinguished 1210 spectra of tumor and normal cells with a sensitivity of >99.7% and a specificity of >99.5%. Third, a microfluidic glass chip was designed to inject single cells, modify the flow speed, accommodate fibers of an optical trap and sort single cells after Raman based identification with 514 nm for excitation. Forth, the microfluidic chip was fabricated by quartz which improved cell identification results with 785 nm excitation. Here, partial least squares discriminant analysis gave classification rates of 98%. Finally, a Raman-on-chip approach was developed that integrates fibers for trapping, Raman excitation and signal detection in a single compact unit.

  15. Analysis of optical route in a micro high-speed magneto-optic switch

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Weng, Zihua; Yang, Guoguang; Huang, Yuanqing; Chen, Zhimin; Zhu, Yun; Wu, Jinming; Lin, Shufen; Mo, Weiping

    2005-02-01

    A novel micro high-speed 2x2 magneto-optic switch and its optical route, which is used in high-speed all-optical communication network, is designed and analyzed in this paper. The study of micro high-speed magneto-optic switch mainly involves the optical route and high-speed control technique design. The optical route design covers optical route design of polarization in optical switch, the performance analysis and material selection of magneto-optic crystal and magnetic path design in Faraday rotator. The research of high-speed control technique involves the study of nanosecond pulse generator, high-speed magnetic field and its control technique etc. High-speed current transients from nanosecond pulse generator are used to switch the magnetization of the magneto-optic crystal, which propagates a 1550nm optical beam. The optical route design schemes and electronic circuits of high-speed control technique are both simulated on computer and test by the experiments respectively. The experiment results state that the nanosecond pulse generator can output the pulse with rising edge time 3~35ns, voltage amplitude 10~90V and pulse width 10~100ns. Under the control of CPU singlechip, the optical beam can be stably switched and the switching time is less than 1μs currently.

  16. Trapping and dynamic manipulation of polystyrene beads mimicking circulating tumor cells using targeted magnetic/photoacoustic contrast agents

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wei, Chen-Wei; Xia, Jinjun; Pelivanov, Ivan; Hu, Xiaoge; Gao, Xiaohu; O'Donnell, Matthew

    2012-10-01

    Results on magnetically trapping and manipulating micro-scale beads circulating in a flow field mimicking metastatic cancer cells in human peripheral vessels are presented. Composite contrast agents combining magneto-sensitive nanospheres and highly optical absorptive gold nanorods were conjugated to micro-scale polystyrene beads. To efficiently trap the targeted objects in a fast stream, a dual magnet system consisting of two flat magnets to magnetize (polarize) the contrast agent and an array of cone magnets producing a sharp gradient field to trap the magnetized contrast agent was designed and constructed. A water-ink solution with an optical absorption coefficient of 10 cm-1 was used to mimic the optical absorption of blood. Magnetomotive photoacoustic imaging helped visualize bead trapping, dynamic manipulation of trapped beads in a flow field, and the subtraction of stationary background signals insensitive to the magnetic field. The results show that trafficking micro-scale objects can be effectively trapped in a stream with a flow rate up to 12 ml/min and the background can be significantly (greater than 15 dB) suppressed. It makes the proposed method very promising for sensitive detection of rare circulating tumor cells within high flow vessels with a highly absorptive optical background.

  17. Systematic Studies using the UCN τ Magneto-Gravitational Trap

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Seestrom, Susan; UCNτ Collaboration

    2016-09-01

    The UCN τ Experiment measures the neutron lifetime using Ultracold Neutrons (UCN) stored in a magneto-gravitational trap. The trap employs various techniques to remove neutrons whose energies are too high to be trapped. It has recently been instrumented with a novel in situ detector that can be lowered into the trap to measure the neutron population as a function of height within the trap. This has allowed us to perform a series of systematic studies aimed at understanding and quantifying potential systematic effects associated with quasi-bound neutrons and phase space evolution. We have obtained multiple sets of data each having a statistical uncertainty of about 3 sec. We will discuss the results of our studies of cleaning and phase space evolution as well as results from studies of backgrounds and normalization of the initial neutron loading.

  18. Characterization facility for magneto-optic media and systems

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Mansuripur, M.; Fu, H.; Gadetsky, S.; Sugaya, S.; Wu, T. H.; Zambuto, J.; Gerber, R.; Goodman, T.; Erwin, J. K.

    1993-01-01

    Objectives of this research are: (1) to measure the hysteresis loop, Kerr rotation angle, anisotropy energy profile, Hall voltage, and magnetoresistance of thin-film magneto-optic media using our loop-tracer; (2) measure the wavelength-dependence of the Kerr rotation angle, Theta(sub k), and ellipticity, epsilon(sub k), for thin-film media using our magneto-optic Kerr spectrometer (MOKS); (3) measure the dielectric tensor of thin-film and multilayer samples using our variable-angle magneto-optic ellipsometer (VAMOE); (4) measure the hysteresis loop, coercivity, remanent magnetization, saturation magnetization, and anisotropy energy constant for thin film magnetic media using vibrating sample magnetometry; (5) observe small magnetic domains and investigate their interaction with defects using magnetic force microscopy; (6) perform static read/write/erase experiments on thin-film magneto-optic media using our static test station; (7) integrate the existing models of magnetization, magneto-optic effects, coercivity, and anisotropy in an interactive and user-friendly environment, and analyze the characterization data obtained in the various experiments, using this modeling package; (8) measure focusing- and tracking-error signals on a static testbed, determine the 'feedthrough' for various focusing schemes, investigate the effects of polarization and birefringence, and compare the results with diffraction-based calculations; and (9) measure the birefringence of optical disk substrates using two variable angle ellipsometers.

  19. Efficient magneto-optical mode converter on glass

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Garayt, Jean Philippe; Parsy, François; Jamon, Damien; Neveu, Sophie; Royer, François; Ghibaudo, Elise; Broquin, Jean-Emmanuel

    2014-03-01

    The integration of magneto-optical materials to realize non-reciprocal functions is still a difficult problem, because classical magneto-optical materials require an annealing temperature as high as 700°C. In this framework, this study shows how it is possible to realize efficient magneto-optical mode converter using the association of a magnetic nanoparticles silica/zirconia composite with an ion-exchanged glass waveguide. Using a sol gel process, a silica/zirconia matrix is doped by magnetic nanoparticles (CoFe2O4) and coated on a glass substrate containing straight channel waveguides made by a silver/sodium ion exchange. The extremities of the guides were previously buried using electric field-assisted burial in order to facilitate light injection. Soft annealing (90°C) and UV treatment, both compatible with the ion exchange process, have been implemented to finalize the magneto-optical film. Depending on the amount of nanoparticles in the composite, on the spatial distribution of the field in the guide and on the modal birefringence of the hybrid structure, the TE-TM conversion varies from several degrees to several tens of degrees.

  20. Combined acoustic and optical trapping

    PubMed Central

    Thalhammer, G.; Steiger, R.; Meinschad, M.; Hill, M.; Bernet, S.; Ritsch-Marte, M.

    2011-01-01

    Combining several methods for contact free micro-manipulation of small particles such as cells or micro-organisms provides the advantages of each method in a single setup. Optical tweezers, which employ focused laser beams, offer very precise and selective handling of single particles. On the other hand, acoustic trapping with wavelengths of about 1 mm allows the simultaneous trapping of many, comparatively large particles. With conventional approaches it is difficult to fully employ the strengths of each method due to the different experimental requirements. Here we present the combined optical and acoustic trapping of motile micro-organisms in a microfluidic environment, utilizing optical macro-tweezers, which offer a large field of view and working distance of several millimeters and therefore match the typical range of acoustic trapping. We characterize the acoustic trapping forces with the help of optically trapped particles and present several applications of the combined optical and acoustic trapping, such as manipulation of large (75 μm) particles and active particle sorting. PMID:22025990

  1. Magneto-optical response in bimetallic metamaterials

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Atmatzakis, Evangelos; Papasimakis, Nikitas; Fedotov, Vassili; Vienne, Guillaume; Zheludev, Nikolay I.

    2018-01-01

    We demonstrate resonant Faraday polarization rotation in plasmonic arrays of bimetallic nano-ring resonators consisting of Au and Ni sections. This metamaterial design allows the optimization of the trade-off between the enhancement of magneto-optical effects and plasmonic dissipation. Nickel sections corresponding to as little as 6% of the total surface of the metamaterial result in magneto-optically induced polarization rotation equal to that of a continuous nickel film. Such bimetallic metamaterials can be used in compact magnetic sensors, active plasmonic components, and integrated photonic circuits.

  2. Introducing Magneto-Optical Functions into Soft Materials

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2017-05-03

    the electromagnet as illustrated in Figure 1(b). This experimental measurement allowed us to explore magneto- electric coupling in both ground and...short-range spin-spin interaction. As a general conclusion, the -d electron coupling promise the existence of photo-adjustable magneto- electric ...coupling, paving the way for the realization of magneto- electric -optical applications. Intermoleuar SOC SB Orb S B OrbHinter Hinter 1 2 (b

  3. Coherent Atom Optics with Optical Potentials: A Summary of New Phenomena with Bose-Einstein Condensates at the University of Arizona

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2009-10-08

    differentially pumped two-cell vacuum system. A gas of Rb atoms, provided by SAES dispensers, fills a glass cell where laser cooling and magneto - optic ...mask [Fig. 1(b)] that was imaged onto the center of the trap . The sum of the magnetic and optical potentials created a triple-well trap , with three... Simulations of BEC growth in a toroidal trap show vortices (as in (b),(c)) and persistent currents. 4 The merging of experimental capabilities. [ongoing work

  4. Note: Toward multiple addressable optical trapping

    PubMed Central

    Faustov, Alexei R.; Webb, Michael R.; Walt, David R.

    2010-01-01

    We describe a setup for addressable optical trapping in which a laser source is focused on a digital micromirror device and generates an optical trap in a microfluidic cell. In this paper, we report a proof-of-principle single beam∕single micromirror∕single three-dimensional trap arrangement that should serve as the basis for a multiple-trap instrument. PMID:20192526

  5. A magneto-electro-optical effect in a plasmonic nanowire material

    PubMed Central

    Valente, João; Ou, Jun-Yu; Plum, Eric; Youngs, Ian J.; Zheludev, Nikolay I.

    2015-01-01

    Electro- and magneto-optical phenomena play key roles in photonic technology enabling light modulators, optical data storage, sensors and numerous spectroscopic techniques. Optical effects, linear and quadratic in external electric and magnetic field are widely known and comprehensively studied. However, optical phenomena that depend on the simultaneous application of external electric and magnetic fields in conventional media are barely detectable and technologically insignificant. Here we report that a large reciprocal magneto-electro-optical effect can be observed in metamaterials. In an artificial chevron nanowire structure fabricated on an elastic nano-membrane, the Lorentz force drives reversible transmission changes on application of a fraction of a volt when the structure is placed in a fraction-of-tesla magnetic field. We show that magneto-electro-optical modulation can be driven to hundreds of thousands of cycles per second promising applications in magneto-electro-optical modulators and field sensors at nano-tesla levels. PMID:25906761

  6. Sources of noise in magneto-optical readout

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Mansuripur, M.

    1991-01-01

    The various sources of noise which are often encountered in magneto-optical readout systems are analyzed. Although the focus is on magneto-optics, most sources of noise are common among the various optical recording systems and one can easily adapt the results to other media and systems. A description of the magneto-optical readout system under consideration is given, and the standard methods and the relevant terminology of signal and noise measurement are described. The characteristics of thermal noise, which originates in the electronic circuitry of the readout system, are described. The most fundamental of all sources of noise, the shot noise, is considered, and a detailed account of its statistical properties is given. Shot noise, which is due to random fluctuations in photon arrival times, is an ever-present noise in optical detection. Since the performance of magneto-optical recording devices in use today is approaching the limit imposed by the shot noise, it is important that the reader have a good grasp of this particular source of noise. A model for the laser noise is described, and measurement results which yield numerical values for the strength of the laser power fluctuations are presented. Spatial variations of the disk reflectivity and random depolarization phenomena also contribute to the overall level of noise in readout; these and related issues are treated. Numerical simulation results describing some of the more frequently encountered sources of noise which accompany the recorded waveform itself, namely, jitter noise and signal-amplitude fluctuation noise are presented.

  7. Optical and magneto-optical properties of one-dimensional magnetized coupled resonator plasma photonic crystals

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Hamidi, S. M.

    2012-01-15

    In this paper, the optical and magneto-optical properties of one-dimensional magnetized coupled resonator plasma photonic crystals have been investigated. We use transfer matrix method to solve our magnetized coupled resonator plasma photonic crystals consist of dielectric and magnetized plasma layers. The results of the change in the optical and magneto-optical properties of structure as a result of the alteration in the structural properties such as thickness, plasma frequency and collision frequency, plasma filling factor, number of resonators and dielectric constant of dielectric layers and external magnetic field have been reported. The main feature of this structure is a good magneto-opticalmore » rotation that takes place at the defect modes and the edge of photonic band gap of our proposed optical magnetized plasma waveguide. Our outcomes demonstrate the potential applications of the device for tunable and adjustable filters or reflectors and active magneto-optic in microwave devices under structural parameter and external magnetic field.« less

  8. Dual-beam optical trapping of cells in an optofluidic device fabricated by femtosecond lasers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bellini, N.; Bragheri, F.; Vishnubhatla, K. C.; Ferrara, L.; Minzioni, P.; Cerullo, G.; Ramponi, R.; Cristiani, I.; Osellame, R.

    2010-02-01

    We present design and optimization of an optofluidic monolithic chip, able to provide optical trapping and controlled stretching of single cells. The chip is fabricated in a fused silica glass substrate by femtosecond laser micromachining, which can produce both optical waveguides and microfluidic channels with great accuracy. Versatility and three-dimensional capabilities of this fabrication technology provide the possibility to fabricate circular cross-section channels with enlarged access holes for an easy connection with an external fluidic circuit. Moreover, a new fabrication procedure adopted allows the demonstration of microchannels with a square cross-section, thus guaranteeing an improved quality of the trapped cell images. Optical trapping and stretching of single red blood cells are demonstrated, thus proving the effectiveness of the proposed device as a monolithic optical stretcher. We believe that femtosecond laser micromachining represents a promising technique for the development of multifunctional integrated biophotonic devices that can be easily coupled to a microscope platform, thus enabling a complete characterization of the cells under test.

  9. Optical waveguide loop for planar trapping of blood cells and microspheres

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ahluwalia, Balpreet S.; Hellesø, Olav G.

    2013-09-01

    The evanescent field from a waveguide can be used to trap and propel a particle. An optical waveguide loop with an intentional gap at the center is used for planar transport and stable trapping of particles. The waveguide acts as a conveyor belt to trap and deliver spheres towards the gap. At the gap, the counter-diverging light fields hold the sphere at a fixed position. Numerical simulation based on the finite element method was performed in three dimensions using a computer cluster. The field distribution and optical forces for rib and strip waveguide designs are compared and discussed. The optical force on a single particle was computed for various positions of the particle in the gap. Simulation predicted stable trapping of particles in the gap. Depending on the gap separation (2-50 μm) a single or multiple spheres and red blood cells were trapped at the gap. Waveguides were made of tantalum pentaoxide material. The waveguides are only 180 nm thick and thus could be integrated with other functions on the chip.

  10. Confocal micro-Raman spectroscopy of single biological cells using optical trapping and shifted excitation difference techniques

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xie, Changan; Li, Yong-qing

    2003-03-01

    We report on the study of single biological cells with a confocal micro-Raman spectroscopy system that uses optical trapping and shifted excitation Raman difference technique. A tunable diode laser was used to capture a living cell in solution, confine it in the confocal excitation volume, and then excite the Raman scattering. The optical trapping allows us to lift the cell well off the cover plate so that the fluorescence interference from the plate can be effectively reduced. In order to further remove the interference of the fluorescence and stray light from the trapped cell, we employed a shifted excitation Raman difference technique with slightly tuned laser frequencies. With this system, high-quality Raman spectra were obtained from single optically trapped biological cells including E. coli bacteria, yeast cells, and red blood cells. A significant difference between control and heat-treated E. coli B cells was observed due to the denaturation of biomolecules.

  11. Determination of magneto-optical constant of Fe films with weak measurements

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Qiu, Xiaodong; Hu, Dejiao; Du, Jinglei

    2014-09-29

    In this letter, a detecting method for the magneto-optical constant is presented by using weak measurements. The photonic spin Hall effect (PSHE), which manifests itself as spin-dependent splitting, is introduced to characterize the magneto-optical constant, and a propagation model to describe the quantitative relation between the magneto-optical constant and the PSHE is established. According to the amplified shift of the PSHE detected by weak measurements, we determinate the magneto-optical constant of the Fe film sample. The Kerr rotation is measured via the standard polarimetry method to verify the rationality and feasibility of our method. These findings may provide possible applicationsmore » in magnetic physics research.« less

  12. Optical trapping inside living organisms

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hansen, Poul M.; Oddershede, Lene B.

    2005-08-01

    We use optical tweezers to investigate processes happening inside ving cells. In a previous study, we trapped naturally occurring lipid granules inside living yeast cells, and used them to probe the viscoelastic properties of the cytoplasm. However, we prefer to use probes which can be specifically attached to various organelles within the living cells in order to optically quantify the forces acting on these organelles. Therefore, we have chosen to use nanometer sized gold beads as probes. These gold beads can be conjugated and attached chemically to the organelles of interest. Only Rayleigh metallic particles can be optically trapped and for these it is the case that the larger the beads, the larger the forces which can be exerted and thus measured using optical tweezers. The gold nanoparticles are injected into the cytoplasm using micropipettes. The very rigid cell wall of the S. pombe yeast cells poses a serious obstacle to this injection. In order to be able to punch a hole in the cell, first, the cells have to be turned into protoplasts, where only a lipid bilayer separates the cytoplasm from the surrounding media. We show how to perform micropipette delivery into the protoplasts and also how the protoplasts can be ablated using the trapping laserlight. Finally, we demonstrate that we can transform the protoplasts back to normal yeast cells.

  13. Optical trapping

    PubMed Central

    Neuman, Keir C.; Block, Steven M.

    2006-01-01

    Since their invention just over 20 years ago, optical traps have emerged as a powerful tool with broad-reaching applications in biology and physics. Capabilities have evolved from simple manipulation to the application of calibrated forces on—and the measurement of nanometer-level displacements of—optically trapped objects. We review progress in the development of optical trapping apparatus, including instrument design considerations, position detection schemes and calibration techniques, with an emphasis on recent advances. We conclude with a brief summary of innovative optical trapping configurations and applications. PMID:16878180

  14. Optically trapped atomic resonant devices for narrow linewidth spectral imaging

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Qian, Lipeng

    This thesis focuses on the development of atomic resonant devices for spectroscopic applications. The primary emphasis is on the imaging properties of optically thick atomic resonant fluorescent filters and their applications. In addition, this thesis presents a new concept for producing very narrow linewidth light as from an atomic vapor lamp pumped by a nanosecond pulse system. This research was motivated by application for missile warning system, and presents an innovative approach to a wide angle, ultra narrow linewidth imaging filter using a potassium vapor cell. The approach is to image onto and collect the fluorescent photons emitted from the surface of an optically thick potassium vapor cell, generating a 2 GHz pass-band imaging filter. This linewidth is narrow enough to fall within a Fraunhefer dark zone in the solar spectrum, thus make the detection solar blind. Experiments are conducted to measure the absorption line shape of the potassium resonant filter, the quantum efficiency of the fluorescent behavior, and the resolution of the fluorescent image. Fluorescent images with different spatial frequency components are analyzed by using a discrete Fourier transform, and the imaging capability of the fluorescent filter is described by its Modulation Transfer Function. For the detection of radiation that is spectrally broader than the linewidth of the potassium imaging filter, the fluorescent image is seen to be blurred by diffuse fluorescence from the slightly off resonant photons. To correct this, an ultra-thin potassium imaging filter is developed and characterized. The imaging property of the ultra-thin potassium imaging cell is tested with a potassium seeded flame, yielding a resolution image of ˜ 20 lines per mm. The physics behind the atomic resonant fluorescent filter is radiation trapping. The diffusion process of the resonant photons trapped in the atomic vapor is theoretically described in this thesis. A Monte Carlo method is used to simulate the

  15. Design and fabrication of plasmonic cavities for magneto-optical sensing

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Loughran, T. H. J.; Roth, J.; Keatley, P. S.; Hendry, E.; Barnes, W. L.; Hicken, R. J.; Einsle, J. F.; Amy, A.; Hendren, W.; Bowman, R. M.; Dawson, P.

    2018-05-01

    The design and fabrication of a novel plasmonic cavity, intended to allow far-field recovery of signals arising from near field magneto-optical interactions, is presented. Finite element modeling is used to describe the interaction between a gold film, containing cross-shaped cavities, with a nearby magnetic under-layer. The modeling revealed strong electric field confinement near the center of the cross structure for certain optical wavelengths, which may be tuned by varying the length of the cross through a range that is compatible with available fabrication techniques. Furthermore, the magneto optical Kerr effect (MOKE) response of the composite structure can be enhanced with respect to that of the bare magnetic film. To confirm these findings, cavities were milled within gold films deposited upon a soluble film, allowing relocation to a ferromagnetic film using a float transfer technique. Cross cavity arrays were fabricated and characterized by optical transmission spectroscopy prior to floating, revealing resonances at optical wavelengths in good agreement with the finite element modeling. Following transfer to the magnetic film, circular test apertures within the gold film yielded clear magneto-optical signals even for diameters within the sub-wavelength regime. However, no magneto-optical signal was observed for the cross cavity arrays, since the FIB milling process was found to produce nanotube structures within the soluble under-layer that adhered to the gold. Further optimization of the fabrication process should allow recovery of magneto-optical signal from cross cavity structures.

  16. Temperature Sensitivity of an Atomic Vapor Cell-Based Dispersion-Enhanced Optical Cavity

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Myneni, K.; Smith, D. D.; Chang, H.; Luckay, H. A.

    2015-01-01

    Enhancement of the response of an optical cavity to a change in optical path length, through the use of an intracavity fast-light medium, has previously been demonstrated experimentally and described theoretically for an atomic vapor cell as the intracavity resonant absorber. This phenomenon may be used to enhance both the scale factor and sensitivity of an optical cavity mode to the change in path length, e.g. in gyroscopic applications. We study the temperature sensitivity of the on-resonant scale factor enhancement, S(sub o), due to the thermal sensitivity of the lower-level atom density in an atomic vapor cell, specifically for the case of the Rb-87 D(sub 2) transition. A semi-empirical model of the temperature-dependence of the absorption profile, characterized by two parameters, a(sub o)(T) and gamma(sub a)(T) allows the temperature-dependence of the cavity response, S(sub o)(T) and dS(sub o)/dT to be predicted over a range of temperature. We compare the predictions to experiment. Our model will be useful in determining the useful range for S(sub o), given the practical constraints on temperature stability for an atomic vapor cell.

  17. Surface transport and stable trapping of particles and cells by an optical waveguide loop.

    PubMed

    Hellesø, Olav Gaute; Løvhaugen, Pål; Subramanian, Ananth Z; Wilkinson, James S; Ahluwalia, Balpreet Singh

    2012-09-21

    Waveguide trapping has emerged as a useful technique for parallel and planar transport of particles and biological cells and can be integrated with lab-on-a-chip applications. However, particles trapped on waveguides are continuously propelled forward along the surface of the waveguide. This limits the practical usability of the waveguide trapping technique with other functions (e.g. analysis, imaging) that require particles to be stationary during diagnosis. In this paper, an optical waveguide loop with an intentional gap at the centre is proposed to hold propelled particles and cells. The waveguide acts as a conveyor belt to transport and deliver the particles/cells towards the gap. At the gap, the diverging light fields hold the particles at a fixed position. The proposed waveguide design is numerically studied and experimentally implemented. The optical forces on the particle at the gap are calculated using the finite element method. Experimentally, the method is used to transport and trap micro-particles and red blood cells at the gap with varying separations. The waveguides are only 180 nm thick and thus could be integrated with other functions on the chip, e.g. microfluidics or optical detection, to make an on-chip system for single cell analysis and to study the interaction between cells.

  18. Gate-Controllable Magneto-optic Kerr Effect in Layered Collinear Antiferromagnets

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Sivadas, Nikhil; Okamoto, Satoshi; Xiao, Di

    2016-12-23

    In this paper, using symmetry arguments and a tight-binding model, we show that for layered collinear antiferromagnets, magneto-optic effects can be generated and manipulated by controlling crystal symmetries through a gate voltage. This provides a promising route for electric field manipulation of the magneto-optic effects without modifying the underlying magnetic structure. We further demonstrate the gate control of the magneto-optic Kerr effect (MOKE) in bilayer MnPSe 3 using first-principles calculations. Finally, the field-induced inversion symmetry breaking effect leads to gate-controllable MOKE, whose direction of rotation can be switched by the reversal of the gate voltage.

  19. Cooling an Optically Trapped Ultracold Fermi Gas by Periodical Driving.

    PubMed

    Li, Jiaming; de Melo, Leonardo F; Luo, Le

    2017-03-30

    We present a cooling method for a cold Fermi gas by parametrically driving atomic motions in a crossed-beam optical dipole trap (ODT). Our method employs the anharmonicity of the ODT, in which the hotter atoms at the edge of the trap feel the anharmonic components of the trapping potential, while the colder atoms in the center of the trap feel the harmonic one. By modulating the trap depth with frequencies that are resonant with the anharmonic components, we selectively excite the hotter atoms out of the trap while keeping the colder atoms in the trap, generating parametric cooling. This experimental protocol starts with a magneto-optical trap (MOT) that is loaded by a Zeeman slower. The precooled atoms in the MOT are then transferred to an ODT, and a bias magnetic field is applied to create an interacting Fermi gas. We then lower the trapping potential to prepare a cold Fermi gas near the degenerate temperature. After that, we sweep the magnetic field to the noninteracting regime of the Fermi gas, in which the parametric cooling can be manifested by modulating the intensity of the optical trapping beams. We find that the parametric cooling effect strongly depends on the modulation frequencies and amplitudes. With the optimized frequency and amplitude, we measure the dependence of the cloud energy on the modulation time. We observe that the cloud energy is changed in an anisotropic way, where the energy of the axial direction is significantly reduced by parametric driving. The cooling effect is limited to the axial direction because the dominant anharmonicity of the crossed-beam ODT is along the axial direction. Finally, we propose to extend this protocol for the trapping potentials of large anharmonicity in all directions, which provides a promising scheme for cooling quantum gases using external driving.

  20. Low-temperature high-density magneto-optical trapping of potassium using the open 4S{yields}5P transition at 405 nm

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    McKay, D. C.; Jervis, D.; Fine, D. J.

    2011-12-15

    We report the laser cooling and trapping of neutral potassium on an open transition. Fermionic {sup 40}K is captured using a magneto-optical trap (MOT) on the closed 4S{sub 1/2}{yields}4P{sub 3/2} transition at 767 nm and then transferred, with high efficiency, to a MOT on the open 4S{sub 1/2}{yields}5P{sub 3/2} transition at 405 nm. Because the 5P{sub 3/2} state has a smaller linewidth than the 4P{sub 3/2} state, the Doppler limit is reduced from 145 {mu}K to 24 {mu}K, and we observe temperatures as low as 63(6) {mu}K. The density of trapped atoms also increases, due to reduced temperature and reducedmore » expulsive light forces. We measure a two-body loss coefficient of {beta}=1.4(1)x10{sup -10} cm{sup 3}/s near saturation intensity, and estimate an upper bound of 8x10{sup -18} cm{sup 2} for the ionization cross section of the 5P state at 405 nm. The combined temperature and density improvement in the 405 nm MOT is a twenty-fold increase in phase-space density over our 767 nm MOT, showing enhanced precooling for quantum gas experiments. A qualitatively similar enhancement is observed in a 405 nm MOT of bosonic {sup 41}K.« less

  1. Near-infrared Raman spectroscopy of single optically trapped biological cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xie, Changan; Dinno, Mumtaz A.; Li, Yong-Qing

    2002-02-01

    We report on the development and testing of a compact laser tweezers Raman spectroscopy (LTRS) system. The system combines optical trapping and near-infrared Raman spectroscopy for manipulation and identification of single biological cells in solution. A low-power diode laser at 785 nm was used for both trapping and excitation for Raman spectroscopy of the suspended microscopic particles. The design of the LTRS system provides high sensitivity and permits real-time spectroscopic measurements of the biological sample. The system was calibrated by use of polystyrene microbeads and tested on living blood cells and on both living and dead yeast cells. As expected, different images and Raman spectra were observed for the different cells. The LTRS system may provide a valuable tool for the study of fundamental cellular processes and the diagnosis of cellular disorders.

  2. Micro Solar Cells with Concentration and Light Trapping Optics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Lanfang; Breuckner, Eric; Corcoran, Christopher; Yao, Yuan; Xu, Lu; Nuzzo, Ralph

    2013-03-01

    Compared with conventional bulk plate semiconductor solar cells, micro solar cells provide opportunity for novel design geometry and provide test bed for light trapping at the device level as well as module level. Surface recombination, however, will have to be addressed properly as the much increased surface area due to the reduced dimension is more prominent in these devices than conventional solar cells. In this poster, we present experimental demonstration of silicon micro solar cells with concentration and light trapping optics. Silicon micro solar cell with optimized surface passivation and doping profile that exhibit high efficiency is demonstrated. Effective incorporation of high quantum yield fluorescent centers in the polymer matrix into which micro solar cell was encapsulated was investigated for luminescent solar concentration application. Micro-cell on a semi-transparent, nanopatterned reflector formed by soft-imprint lithography was investigated for near field effect related solar conversion performance enhancement. This work is supported by the DOE `Light-Material Interactions in Energy Conversion' Energy Frontier Research Center under grant DE-SC0001293

  3. Physiological Monitoring of Optically Trapped Cells: Studying the Effects of Confinement by 1064 NM Lazer Tweezers Using Microfluorometry

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Yagang

    A novel technique that combines microfluorometric detection and optical laser trapping has been developed for in-situ assessing the physiological state of an optically trapped biological sample. This optical diagnostic technique achieves high sensitivity (>30 dB signal -to-noise ratio) and high spatial resolution (~ 1 μm) over a broad spectral range (>400 nm). The fluorescence spectra derived from exogenous fluorescent probes, including laurdan, acridine orange, propidium iodide and Snarf, are used to assess the effects of optical confinement with respect to temperature, DNA structure, cell viability, and intracellular pH, respectively. In the latter three cases, fluorescence is excited via a two-photon absorption process, using the cw laser trap itself as the fluorescence excitation source. This enables the cw near infrared laser trapping beam to be used simultaneously as an optical diagnostic probe as well as an optical micromanipulator. Using microfluorometry, a temperature increase of less than several degrees centigrade was measured for test samples, including liposomes, Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells and human sperm cells that were held stationary by 1064 nm optical tweezers having a power density of ~10^7 W/cm^2. Additional physiological monitoring experiments indicated that there is no observable denaturation of DNA, or change of intracellular pH under typical continuous wave laser trapping conditions (P <= 400 mW). Under some circumstances, however, it was possible to achieve a decrease in cell viability with cw trapping, as monitored by a live/dead vital stain. In comparison, significant DNA denaturation and cellular physiological changes (e.g. cell death) were observed when a Q-switched pulsed laser at a threshold of ~30mu J/pulse was used as trapping source. These results generally support the conclusion that cw laser trapping at 1064 nm wavelength is a safe, non-invasive process and should prove to be of great value for understanding the mechanisms

  4. Filter vapor trap

    DOEpatents

    Guon, Jerold

    1976-04-13

    A sintered filter trap is adapted for insertion in a gas stream of sodium vapor to condense and deposit sodium thereon. The filter is heated and operated above the melting temperature of sodium, resulting in a more efficient means to remove sodium particulates from the effluent inert gas emanating from the surface of a liquid sodium pool. Preferably the filter leaves are precoated with a natrophobic coating such as tetracosane.

  5. Intracavity optical trapping with Ytterbium doped fiber ring laser

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sayed, Rania; Kalantarifard, Fatemeh; Elahi, Parviz; Ilday, F. Omer; Volpe, Giovanni; Maragò, Onofrio M.

    2013-09-01

    We propose a novel approach for trapping micron-sized particles and living cells based on optical feedback. This approach can be implemented at low numerical aperture (NA=0.5, 20X) and long working distance. In this configuration, an optical tweezers is constructed inside a ring cavity fiber laser and the optical feedback in the ring cavity is controlled by the light scattered from a trapped particle. In particular, once the particle is trapped, the laser operation, optical feedback and intracavity power are affected by the particle motion. We demonstrate that using this configuration is possible to stably hold micron-sized particles and single living cells in the focal spot of the laser beam. The calibration of the optical forces is achieved by tracking the Brownian motion of a trapped particle or cell and analysing its position distribution.

  6. Far-Infrared Magneto-Optical Studies in Germanium and Indium-Antimonide at High Intensities

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Leung, Michael

    Observations of nonlinear magneto-optical phenomena occurring in p-type Germanium and n-type Indium Antimonide are reported. These include multi-photon ionization of impurity states, and a new observation, the magneto-photon ionization of impurity states, and a new observation, the magneto-photon drag effect. A novel source of far-infrared radiation has been used. This source uses a pulsed CO(,2) LASER to optically pump a super-radiant cell, generating light with intensities up to 100 KW/cm('2) and wavelengths from 66 (mu)m to 496 (mu)m in a pulse of 150 nanoseconds duration. The Germanium samples were doped with Gallium, which is a shallow acceptor with an ionization potential of 11 meV. At liquid Helium temperature virtually all charge carriers are bound to acceptor sites. However, the high intensity radiation unexpectedly ionizes the acceptors. This is demonstrated through measurements of photoconductivity, transmission and the photo-Hall Effect. This observation is unexpected because the photon energy is one-fourth the ionization potential. Rate equations describing sequential multiphoton excitations are in agreement with the experimental results. The intermediate states are postulated to be acceptor exciton band states. Studies of the photoexcited mobility at 496 (mu)m suggest that at non-saturating levels of photoexcitation, the primary scattering mechanism of hot holes in Germanium is by neutral impurities. A new magneto-optical effect, the magneto-photon drag effect, has been studied in both Germanium and Indium Antimonide. This is simply the absorption of momentum by free carriers, from an incident photon field. It has been found that the mechanism for this effect is different in the two materials. In Germanium, the effect occurs when carriers make optical transitions from the heavy hole band to the light hole band. Thus, the magneto-optical behavior depends heavily upon the band structure. On the other hand, a modified Drude model (independent electron

  7. Magneto-optical system for high speed real time imaging.

    PubMed

    Baziljevich, M; Barness, D; Sinvani, M; Perel, E; Shaulov, A; Yeshurun, Y

    2012-08-01

    A new magneto-optical system has been developed to expand the range of high speed real time magneto-optical imaging. A special source for the external magnetic field has also been designed, using a pump solenoid to rapidly excite the field coil. Together with careful modifications of the cryostat, to reduce eddy currents, ramping rates reaching 3000 T/s have been achieved. Using a powerful laser as the light source, a custom designed optical assembly, and a high speed digital camera, real time imaging rates up to 30 000 frames per seconds have been demonstrated.

  8. Magneto-optical system for high speed real time imaging

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Baziljevich, M.; Barness, D.; Sinvani, M.; Perel, E.; Shaulov, A.; Yeshurun, Y.

    2012-08-01

    A new magneto-optical system has been developed to expand the range of high speed real time magneto-optical imaging. A special source for the external magnetic field has also been designed, using a pump solenoid to rapidly excite the field coil. Together with careful modifications of the cryostat, to reduce eddy currents, ramping rates reaching 3000 T/s have been achieved. Using a powerful laser as the light source, a custom designed optical assembly, and a high speed digital camera, real time imaging rates up to 30 000 frames per seconds have been demonstrated.

  9. Thermal electric vapor trap arrangement and method

    DOEpatents

    Alger, Terry

    1988-01-01

    A technique for trapping vapor within a section of a tube is disclosed herein. This technique utilizes a conventional, readily providable thermal electric device having a hot side and a cold side and means for powering the device to accomplish this. The cold side of this device is positioned sufficiently close to a predetermined section of the tube and is made sufficiently cold so that any condensable vapor passing through the predetermined tube section is condensed and trapped, preferably within the predetermined tube section itself.

  10. Thermal electric vapor trap arrangement and method

    DOEpatents

    Alger, T.

    1988-03-15

    A technique for trapping vapor within a section of a tube is disclosed herein. This technique utilizes a conventional, readily providable thermal electric device having a hot side and a cold side and means for powering the device to accomplish this. The cold side of this device is positioned sufficiently close to a predetermined section of the tube and is made sufficiently cold so that any condensable vapor passing through the predetermined tube section is condensed and trapped, preferably within the predetermined tube section itself. 4 figs.

  11. Trapped atom number in millimeter-scale magneto-optical traps

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hoth, Gregory W.; Donley, Elizabeth A.; Kitching, John

    2012-06-01

    For compact cold-atom instruments, it is desirable to trap a large number of atoms in a small volume to maximize the signal-to-noise ratio. In MOTs with beam diameters of a centimeter or larger, the slowing force is roughly constant versus velocity and the trapped atom number scales as d^4. For millimeter-scale MOTs formed from pyramidal reflectors, a d^6 dependence has been observed [Pollack et al., Opt. Express 17, 14109 (2009)]. A d^6 scaling is expected for small MOTs, where the slowing force is proportional to the atom velocity. For a 1 mm diameter MOT, a d^6 scaling results in 10 atoms, and the difference between a d^4 and a d^6 dependence corresponds to a factor of 1000 in atom number and a factor of 30 in the signal-to-noise ratio. We have observed >10^4 atoms in 1 mm diameter MOTs, consistent with a d^4 dependence. We are currently performing measurements for sub-mm MOTs to determine where the d^4 to d^6 crossover occurs in our system. We are also exploring MOTs based on linear polarization, which can potentially produce stronger slowing forces due to stimulated emission [Emile et al., Europhys. Lett. 20, 687 (1992)]. It may be possible to trap more atoms in small volumes with this method, since high intensities can be easily achieved.

  12. Magneto-optical spectroscopy of Co{sub 2}FeSi Heusler compound

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Veis, M., E-mail: veis@karlov.mff.cuni.cz; Beran, L.; Antos, R.

    2014-05-07

    Magneto-optical and electronic properties of the Co{sub 2}FeSi Heusler compound were studied by polar Kerr magneto-optical spectroscopy and ab-initio calculations. The thin-film samples were grown by dc/rf magnetron co-sputtering on MgO(100) substrates. A Cr seed layer was deposited prior to the Co{sub 2}FeSi layer to achieve its epitaxial growth. The magneto-optical spectroscopy was carried out using generalized magneto-optical ellipsometry with rotating analyzer in the photon energy range from 1.4 to 5.5 eV with an applied magnetic field of up to 1.2 T. The polar Kerr spectra showed a smooth spectral behavior up to 5.5 eV indicating nearly free charge carriers. Experimental data weremore » compared with ab-initio calculations based on density functional theory employing the full-potential linearized augmented plane wave method.« less

  13. Transient dynamics of a nonlinear magneto-optical rotation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Grewal, Raghwinder Singh; Pustelny, S.; Rybak, A.; Florkowski, M.

    2018-04-01

    We analyze nonlinear magneto-optical rotation (NMOR) in rubidium vapor subjected to a continuously scanned magnetic field. By varying the magnetic-field sweep rate, a transition from traditionally observed dispersivelike NMOR signals (low sweep rate) to oscillating signals (higher sweep rates) is demonstrated. The transient oscillatory behavior is studied versus light and magnetic-field parameters, revealing a strong dependence of the signals on magnetic sweep rate and light intensity. The experimental results are supported with density-matrix calculations, which enable quantitative analysis of the effect. Fitting of the signals simulated versus different parameters with a theoretically motivated curve reveals the presence of oscillatory and static components in the signals. The components depend differently on the system parameters, which suggests their distinct nature. The investigations provide insight into the dynamics of ground-state coherence generation and enable application of NMOR in detection of transient spin couplings.

  14. Euler buckling-induced folding and rotation of red blood cells in an optical trap

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ghosh, A.; Sinha, Supurna; Dharmadhikari, J. A.; Roy, S.; Dharmadhikari, A. K.; Samuel, J.; Sharma, S.; Mathur, D.

    2006-03-01

    We investigate the physics of an optically driven micromotor of biological origin. When a single, live red blood cell (RBC) is placed in an optical trap, the normal biconcave disc shape of the cell is observed to fold into a rod-like shape. If the trapping laser beam is circularly polarized, the folded RBC rotates. A model based on geometric considerations, using the concept of buckling instabilities, captures the folding phenomenon; the rotation of the cell is rationalized using the Poincaré sphere. Our model predicts that (i) at a critical power of the trapping laser beam the RBC shape undergoes large fluctuations, and (ii) the torque that is generated is proportional to the power of the laser beam. These predictions are verified experimentally. We suggest a possible mechanism for the emergence of birefringent properties in the RBC in the folded state.

  15. Focusing Light Beams To Improve Atomic-Vapor Optical Buffers

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Strekalov, Dmitry; Matsko, Andrey; Savchenkov, Anatoliy

    2010-01-01

    Specially designed focusing of light beams has been proposed as a means of improving the performances of optical buffers based on cells containing hot atomic vapors (e.g., rubidium vapor). There is also a companion proposal to improve performance by use of incoherent optical pumping under suitable conditions. Regarding the proposal to use focusing: The utility of atomic-vapor optical buffers as optical storage and processing devices has been severely limited by nonuniform spatial distributions of intensity in optical beams, arising from absorption of the beams as they propagate in atomic-vapor cells. Such nonuniformity makes it impossible to optimize the physical conditions throughout a cell, thereby making it impossible to optimize the performance of the cell as an optical buffer. In practical terms simplified for the sake of brevity, "to optimize" as used here means to design the cell so as to maximize the group delay of an optical pulse while keeping the absorption and distortion of the pulse reasonably small. Regarding the proposal to use incoherent optical pumping: For reasons too complex to describe here, residual absorption of light is one of the main impediments to achievement of desirably long group delays in hot atomic vapors. The present proposal is directed toward suppressing residual absorption of light. The idea of improving the performance of slow-light optical buffers by use of incoherent pumping overlaps somewhat with the basic idea of Raman-based slow-light systems. However, prior studies of those systems did not quantitatively answer the question of whether the performance of an atomic vapor or other medium that exhibits electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) with Raman gain is superior to that of a medium that exhibits EIT without Raman gain.

  16. Trapping of ultracold polar molecules with a thin-wire electrostatic trap.

    PubMed

    Kleinert, J; Haimberger, C; Zabawa, P J; Bigelow, N P

    2007-10-05

    We describe the realization of a dc electric-field trap for ultracold polar molecules, the thin-wire electrostatic trap (TWIST). The thin wires that form the electrodes of the TWIST allow us to superimpose the trap onto a magneto-optical trap (MOT). In our experiment, ultracold polar NaCs molecules in their electronic ground state are created in the MOT via photoassociation, achieving a continuous accumulation in the TWIST of molecules in low-field seeking states. Initial measurements show that the TWIST trap lifetime is limited only by the background pressure in the chamber.

  17. Artificially-induced organelles are optimal targets for optical trapping experiments in living cells

    PubMed Central

    López-Quesada, C.; Fontaine, A.-S.; Farré, A.; Joseph, M.; Selva, J.; Egea, G.; Ludevid, M. D.; Martín-Badosa, E.; Montes-Usategui, M.

    2014-01-01

    Optical trapping supplies information on the structural, kinetic or rheological properties of inner constituents of the cell. However, the application of significant forces to intracellular objects is notoriously difficult due to a combination of factors, such as the small difference between the refractive indices of the target structures and the cytoplasm. Here we discuss the possibility of artificially inducing the formation of spherical organelles in the endoplasmic reticulum, which would contain densely packed engineered proteins, to be used as optimized targets for optical trapping experiments. The high index of refraction and large size of our organelles provide a firm grip for optical trapping and thereby allow us to exert large forces easily within safe irradiation limits. This has clear advantages over alternative probes, such as subcellular organelles or internalized synthetic beads. PMID:25071944

  18. Magneto-transport and magneto-optical studies on SnO2 transparent semiconducting thin films alloyed with Mn over a wide range of concentration

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bagheri Mohagheghi, M. M.; Tabatabai Yazdi, Sh.; Mousavi, M.

    2018-03-01

    In this work, Mn-alloyed tin oxide transparent thin films with different Mn concentrations up to 60 at% were prepared via the spray pyrolysis method, and their structural, magneto-optical, and magneto-transport properties were studied. The results show that all the deposited films are polycrystalline with the tetragonal rutile structure. The unit cell volume of Sn1- x Mn x O2 films was found to be minimum at the Mn concentration of x = 0.15 indicating to two different mechanisms for Mn addition in the crystal lattice of tin oxide. For the films with Mn concentrations less than 15%, substitutional doping is the working mechanism, while for more Mn concentrations, interstitial one is predominant. A critical Mn concentration about that observed for the structural properties of the films (i.e., x = 0.15) was revealed for their magnetoresistance and magneto-optical properties, as well. This suggests a correlation between the structural and magnetic behaviors of the deposited SnO2:Mn films.

  19. Measurement of Trap Length for an Optical Trap

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Wrbanek, Susan Y.

    2009-01-01

    The trap length along the beam axis for an optical trap formed with an upright, oil-immersion microscope was measured. The goals for this effort were twofold. It was deemed useful to understand the depth to which an optical trap can reach for purposes of developing a tool to assist in the fabrication of miniature devices. Additionally, it was desired to know whether the measured trap length favored one or the other of two competing theories to model an optical trap. The approach was to trap a microsphere of known size and mass and raise it from its initial trap position. The microsphere was then dropped by blocking the laser beam for a pre-determined amount of time. Dropping the microsphere in a free-fall mode from various heights relative to the coverslip provides an estimate of how the trapping length changes with depth in water in a sample chamber on a microscope slide. While it was not possible to measure the trap length with sufficient precision to support any particular theory of optical trap formation, it was possible to find regions where the presence of physical boundaries influenced optical traps, and determine that the trap length, for the apparatus studied, is between 6 and 7 m. These results allow more precise control using optical micromanipulation to assemble miniature devices by providing information about the distance over which an optical trap is effective.

  20. Real-time Raman spectroscopy of optically trapped living cells and organelles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xie, Changan; Goodman, Charles; Dinno, Mumtaz A.; Li, Yong-Qing

    2004-12-01

    We report on real-time Raman spectroscopic studies of optically trapped living cells and organelles using an inverted confocal laser-tweezers-Raman-spectroscopy (LTRS) system. The LTRS system was used to hold a single living cell in a physiological solution or to hold a functional organelle within a living cell and consequently measured its Raman spectra. We have measured the changes in Raman spectra of a trapped yeast cell as the function of the temperature of the bathing solution and studied the irreversible cell degeneration during the heat denaturation. In addition, we measured the in-vitro Raman spectra of the nuclei within living pine cells and B. sporeformer, Strep. salivarius, and E. coli bacteria suspended in solution and showed the possibility of using LTRS system as a sensor for rapid identification of microbes in a fluid.

  1. What is the longitudinal magneto-optical Kerr effect?

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ander Arregi, Jon; Riego, Patricia; Berger, Andreas

    2017-01-01

    We explore the commonly used classification scheme for the magneto-optical Kerr effect (MOKE), which essentially utilizes a dual definition based simultaneously on the Cartesian coordinate components of the magnetization vector with respect to the plane of incidence reference frame and specific elements of the reflection matrix, which describes light reflection from a ferromagnetic surface. We find that an unambiguous correspondence in between reflection matrix elements and magnetization components is valid only in special cases, while in more general cases, it leads to inconsistencies due to an intermixing of the presumed separate effects of longitudinal, transverse and polar MOKE. As an example, we investigate in this work both theoretically and experimentally a material that possesses anisotropic magneto-optical properties in accordance with its crystal symmetry. The derived equations, which specifically predict a so-far unknown polarization effect for the transverse magnetization component, are confirmed by detailed experiments on epitaxial hcp Co films. The results indicate that magneto-optical anisotropy causes significant deviations from the commonly employed MOKE data interpretation. Our work addresses the associated anomalies, provides a suitable analysis route for reliable MOKE magnetometry procedures, and proposes a revised MOKE terminology scheme.

  2. Observation of Diamond Nitrogen-Vacancy Center Photoluminescence under High Vacuum in a Magneto-Gravitational Trap

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ji, Peng; Hsu, Jen-Feng; Lewandowski, Charles W.; Dutt, M. V. Gurudev; D'Urso, Brian

    2016-05-01

    We report the observation of photoluminescence from nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in diamond nanocrystals levitated in a magneto-gravitational trap. The trap utilizes a combination of strong magnetic field gradients and gravity to confine diamagnetic particles in three dimensions. The well-characterized NV centers in trapped diamond nanocrystals provide an ideal built-in sensor to measure the trap magnetic field and the temperature of the trapped diamond nanocrystal. In the future, the NV center spin state could be coupled to the mechanical motion through magnetic field gradients, enabling in an ideal quantum interface between NV center spin and the mechanical motion. National Science Foundation, Grant No. 1540879.

  3. Use of an optical trap for study of host-pathogen interactions for dynamic live cell imaging.

    PubMed

    Tam, Jenny M; Castro, Carlos E; Heath, Robert J W; Mansour, Michael K; Cardenas, Michael L; Xavier, Ramnik J; Lang, Matthew J; Vyas, Jatin M

    2011-07-28

    Dynamic live cell imaging allows direct visualization of real-time interactions between cells of the immune system(1, 2); however, the lack of spatial and temporal control between the phagocytic cell and microbe has rendered focused observations into the initial interactions of host response to pathogens difficult. Historically, intercellular contact events such as phagocytosis(3) have been imaged by mixing two cell types, and then continuously scanning the field-of-view to find serendipitous intercellular contacts at the appropriate stage of interaction. The stochastic nature of these events renders this process tedious, and it is difficult to observe early or fleeting events in cell-cell contact by this approach. This method requires finding cell pairs that are on the verge of contact, and observing them until they consummate their contact, or do not. To address these limitations, we use optical trapping as a non-invasive, non-destructive, but fast and effective method to position cells in culture. Optical traps, or optical tweezers, are increasingly utilized in biological research to capture and physically manipulate cells and other micron-sized particles in three dimensions(4). Radiation pressure was first observed and applied to optical tweezer systems in 1970(5, 6), and was first used to control biological specimens in 1987(7). Since then, optical tweezers have matured into a technology to probe a variety of biological phenomena(8-13). We describe a method(14) that advances live cell imaging by integrating an optical trap with spinning disk confocal microscopy with temperature and humidity control to provide exquisite spatial and temporal control of pathogenic organisms in a physiological environment to facilitate interactions with host cells, as determined by the operator. Live, pathogenic organisms like Candida albicans and Aspergillus fumigatus, which can cause potentially lethal, invasive infections in immunocompromised individuals(15, 16) (e.g. AIDS

  4. Measurement of the Neutron Lifetime with Ultra-cold Neutrons Stored in a Magneto-gravitational Trap

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ezhov, V. F.; Andreev, A. Z.; Ban, G.; Bazarov, B. A.; Geltenbort, P.; Glushkov, A. G.; Knyazkov, V. A.; Kovrizhnykh, N. A.; Krygin, G. B.; Naviliat-Cuncic, O.; Ryabov, V. L.

    2018-05-01

    We report a measurement of the neutron lifetime using ultra-cold neutrons stored in a magneto-gravitational trap made of permanent magnets. Neutrons surviving in the trap after fixed storage times have been counted and the trap losses have continuously been monitored during storage by detecting neutrons leaking from the trap. The value of the neutron lifetime resulting from this measurement is τ n = (878.3 ± 1.6stat ± 1.0syst) s. A unique feature of this experiment is the monitoring of leaking neutrons providing a robust control of the main systematic loss.

  5. Magneto-optical spectroscopy of ferromagnetic shape-memory Ni-Mn-Ga alloy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Veis, M.; Beran, L.; Zahradnik, M.; Antos, R.; Straka, L.; Kopecek, J.; Fekete, L.; Heczko, O.

    2014-05-01

    Magneto-optical properties of single crystal of Ni50.1Mn28.4Ga21.5 magnetic shape memory alloy in martensite and austenite phase were systematically studied. Crystal orientation was approximately along {100} planes of parent cubic austenite. At room temperature, the sample was in modulated 10M martensite phase and transformed to cubic austenite at 323 K. Spectral dependence of polar magneto-optical Kerr effect was obtained by generalized magneto-optical ellipsometry with rotating analyzer in the photon energy range from 1.2 to 4 eV, and from room temperature to temperature above the Curie point. The Kerr rotation spectra exhibit prominent features typical for complexes containing Mn atoms. Significant spectral changes during transformation to austenite can be explained by different optical properties caused by changes in density of states near the Fermi energy.

  6. Plasmon resonance enhanced optical transmission and magneto-optical Faraday effects in nanohole arrays blocked by metal antenna

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lei, Chengxin; Tang, Zhixiong; Wang, Sihao; Li, Daoyong; Chen, Leyi; Tang, Shaolong; Du, Youwei

    2017-07-01

    The properties of the optical and magneto-optical effects of an improved plasmonic nanohole arrays blocked by gold mushroom caps are investigated by using the finite difference time domain (FDTD) method. It is most noteworthy that the strongly enhanced Faraday rotation along with high transmittance has been achieved simultaneously by optimizing the parameters of nanostructure in a broad spectrum spanning visible to near-infrared frequencies, which is very important in practical application for designing novel optical and magneto-optical devices. In our designed structure, we obtained two extraordinary optical transmission (EOT) resonant peaks along with enhanced Faraday rotation and two peaks of the figure of merit (FOM). By optimizing the geometrical parameters of the structure, we can obtain an almost 10-fold enhancement of Faraday rotation with a corresponding transmittance 50%, and the FOM of 0.752 at the same wavelength. As expected, the optical and magneto-optical effects sensitively depends on the geometrical parameters of our structure, which can be simply tailored by the height of pillar, the diameter of mushroom cap, and the period of the structure, and so on. The physical mechanism of these physical phenomena in the paper has been explained in detail. These research findings are of great theoretical significance in developing the novel magneto-optical devices in the future.

  7. Linear and nonlinear magneto-optical absorption in a triangular quantum well

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tung, Luong V.; Vinh, Pham T.; Dinh, Le; Phuc, Huynh V.

    2018-05-01

    In this work, we study the linear and nonlinear magneto-optical absorption spectrum in a triangular quantum well (TrQW) created by the applied electric field via investigating the phonon-assisted cyclotron resonance (PACR) effect. The results are calculated for a specific Ga0.7Al0.3As/GaAs quantum well. The magneto-optical absorption coefficient (MOAC) and the full width at half maximum (FWHM) are found to be significantly dependent on the magnetic field, the electric field and the temperature. Our results showed that the MOAC and FWHM increase with the magnetic, electric fields and temperature. The obtained results also suggest a useful way to control the magneto-optical properties of TrQW by changing these parameters.

  8. Raman microspectroscopy of optically trapped micro- and nanoobjects

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jonáš, Alexandr; Ježek, Jan; Šerý, Mojmír; Zemánek, Pavel

    2008-12-01

    We describe and characterize an experimental system for Raman microspectroscopy of micro- and nanoobjects optically trapped in aqueous suspensions with the use of a single-beam gradient optical trap (Raman tweezers). This system features two separate lasers providing light for the optical trapping and excitation of the Raman scattering spectra from the trapped specimen, respectively. Using independent laser beams for trapping and spectroscopy enables optimizing the parameters of both beams for their respective purposes. Moreover, it is possible to modulate the position of the trapped object relative to the Raman beam focus for maximizing the detected Raman signal and obtaining spatially resolved images of the trapped specimen. Using this experimental system, we have obtained Raman scattering spectra of individual optically confined micron and sub-micron sized polystyrene beads and baker's yeast cells. Sufficiently high signal-to-noise ratio of the spectra could be achieved using a few tens of milliwatts of the Raman beam power and detector integration times on the order of seconds.

  9. Magneto-ellipsometry as a powerful technique for investigating magneto-optical structures properties

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Maximova, Olga; Kosyrev, Nikolay; Yakovlev, Ivan; Shevtsov, Dmitriy; Lyaschenko, Sergey; Varnakov, Sergey; Ovchinnikov, Sergey

    2017-10-01

    In this work we report on new magneto-ellipsometry set-up that allows to grow thin films and nanostructures by ultrahigh vacuum thermal evaporation as well as to conduct in situ measurements during the growth in order to analyze and control nanostructures properties. Ellipsometry and transverse magneto-optical Kerr effect measurements can be performed in situ inside this set-up. A uniform magnetic field of high intensity (more than 1 kOe) can be applied to samples inside the vacuum chamber. Also, we report on the developed method of data interpretation that is the base of the set-up software. Thus, we present a powerful tool for nanostructures synthesis and characterization.

  10. Magneto-optical Kerr spectroscopy of noble metals

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Uba, L.; Uba, S.; Antonov, V. N.

    2017-12-01

    Magneto-optical (MO) response of the noble metals Cu, Ag, and Au in the joint experimental and ab initio theoretical study is reported. The magneto-optical polar Kerr effect (MOKE) spectra of the noble-metal films were measured with the high sensitivity in the applied magnetic field of 1.5 T over the photon energy range 0.74-5.8 eV. Complete set of the optical conductivity tensor elements was determined precisely from the MOKE and the optical spectra measured at the same energy points. The importance of the off-diagonal intraband Drude-type transitions is demonstrated explicitly for each noble metal and found to be a substantial contribution to the observed spectra. It is shown that the first-principles calculations using the spin-polarized fully relativistic Dirac linear-muffin-tin-orbital method with the inclusion of correlation effects by GGA+U approach reproduce well the experimental spectra and allow to explain the microscopic origin of the noble metals' magneto-optical response in terms of interband transitions. Although the energy band structures of Cu, Ag, and Au are very similar, there are some distinctive differences in bandwidths and the energy positions of the bands (especially in X and L symmetry points), mainly due to different spin-orbit splitting and differences in the spatial extent of 3 d , 4 d , and 5 d valence wave functions of noble metals. It was found that the small differences in the band positions lead to significant differences in the MO properties of three noble metals. Although the spin-orbit interaction in Au is about six times larger than in Cu, and approximately two times larger than in Ag, the absolute value of Kerr rotation in Au is of the same magnitude as in Cu and one order of magnitude smaller as compared to Ag. The sharp Kerr effect spectral peak in Ag is not due to the electronic interband transitions, but rather to the plasma-edge splitting. The band-by-band decomposition of the Cu, Ag, and Au MO spectra is presented and the

  11. Magneto-optical spectroscopy of ferromagnetic shape-memory Ni-Mn-Ga alloy

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Veis, M., E-mail: veis@karlov.mff.cuni.cz; Beran, L.; Zahradnik, M.

    2014-05-07

    Magneto-optical properties of single crystal of Ni{sub 50.1}Mn{sub 28.4}Ga{sub 21.5} magnetic shape memory alloy in martensite and austenite phase were systematically studied. Crystal orientation was approximately along (100) planes of parent cubic austenite. At room temperature, the sample was in modulated 10M martensite phase and transformed to cubic austenite at 323 K. Spectral dependence of polar magneto-optical Kerr effect was obtained by generalized magneto-optical ellipsometry with rotating analyzer in the photon energy range from 1.2 to 4 eV, and from room temperature to temperature above the Curie point. The Kerr rotation spectra exhibit prominent features typical for complexes containing Mn atoms. Significantmore » spectral changes during transformation to austenite can be explained by different optical properties caused by changes in density of states near the Fermi energy.« less

  12. Optical and magneto-optical studies of martensitic transformation in Ni-Mn-Ga magnetic shape memory alloys

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Beran, L.; Cejpek, P.; Kulda, M.; Antos, R.; Holy, V.; Veis, M.; Straka, L.; Heczko, O.

    2015-05-01

    Optical and magneto-optical properties of single crystal of Ni50.1Mn28.4Ga21.5 magnetic shape memory alloy during its transformation from martensite to austenite phase were systematically studied. Crystal orientation was approximately along {100} planes of parent cubic austenite. X-ray reciprocal mapping confirmed modulated 10 M martensite phase. Temperature depended measurements of saturation magnetization revealed the martensitic transformation at 335 K during heating. Magneto-optical spectroscopy and spectroscopic ellipsometry were measured in the sample temperature range from 297 to 373 K and photon energy range from 1.2 to 6.5 eV. Magneto-optical spectra of polar Kerr rotation as well as the spectra of ellipsometric parameter Ψ exhibited significant changes when crossing the transformation temperature. These changes were assigned to different optical properties of Ni-Mn-Ga in martensite and austenite phases due to modification of electronic structure near the Fermi energy during martensitic transformation.

  13. Quantitative magneto-optical investigation of superconductor/ferromagnet hybrid structures

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shaw, G.; Brisbois, J.; Pinheiro, L. B. G. L.; Müller, J.; Blanco Alvarez, S.; Devillers, T.; Dempsey, N. M.; Scheerder, J. E.; Van de Vondel, J.; Melinte, S.; Vanderbemden, P.; Motta, M.; Ortiz, W. A.; Hasselbach, K.; Kramer, R. B. G.; Silhanek, A. V.

    2018-02-01

    We present a detailed quantitative magneto-optical imaging study of several superconductor/ferromagnet hybrid structures, including Nb deposited on top of thermomagnetically patterned NdFeB and permalloy/niobium with erasable and tailored magnetic landscapes imprinted in the permalloy layer. The magneto-optical imaging data are complemented with and compared to scanning Hall probe microscopy measurements. Comprehensive protocols have been developed for calibrating, testing, and converting Faraday rotation data to magnetic field maps. Applied to the acquired data, they reveal the comparatively weaker magnetic response of the superconductor from the background of larger fields and field gradients generated by the magnetic layer.

  14. Radiation stability of visible and near-infrared optical and magneto-optical properties of terbium gallium garnet crystals.

    PubMed

    Geist, Brian; Ronningen, Reginald; Stolz, Andreas; Bollen, Georg; Kochergin, Vladimir

    2015-04-01

    Perspectives of terbium gallium garnet, Tb₃Ga₅O₁₂ (TGG), for the use of radiation-resistant high magnetic field sensing are studied. Long-term radiation stability of the TGG crystals was analyzed by comparing the optical and magneto-optical properties of a radiation-exposed TGG crystal (equivalent neutron dose 6.3×10¹³ n/cm²) to the properties of TGG control samples. Simulations were also performed to predict radiation damage mechanisms in the TGG crystal. Radiation-induced increase in the absorbance at shorter wavelengths was observed as well as a reduction in the Faraday effect while no degradation of magneto-optical effect was observed when at wavelengths above 600 nm. This suggests that TGG crystal would be a good candidate for use in magneto-optical radiation-resistant magnetic field sensors.

  15. Automated motile cell capture and analysis with optical traps.

    PubMed

    Shao, Bing; Nascimento, Jaclyn M; Shi, Linda Z; Botvinick, Elliot L

    2007-01-01

    Laser trapping in the near infrared regime is a noninvasive and microfluidic-compatible biomedical tool. This chapter examines the use of optical trapping as a quantitative measure of sperm motility. The single point gradient trap is used to directly measure the swimming forces of sperm from several different species. These forces could provide useful information about the overall sperm motility and semen quality. The swimming force is measured by trapping sperm and subsequently decreasing laser power until the sperm is capable of escaping the trap. Swimming trajectories were calculated by custom built software, an automatic sperm tracking algorithm called the single sperm tracking algorithm or SSTA. A real-time automated tracking and trapping system, or RATTS, which operates at video rate, was developed to perform experiments with minimal human involvement. After the experimenter initially identifies and clicks the computer mouse on the sperm-of-interest, RATTS performs all further tracking and trapping functions without human intervention. Additionally, an annular laser trap which is potentially useful for high-throughput sperm sorting based on motility and chemotaxis was developed. This low power trap offers a more gentle way for studying the effects of laser radiation, optical force, and external obstacles on sperm swimming pattern.

  16. Ultralow-intensity magneto-optical and mechanical effects in metal nanocolloids.

    PubMed

    Moocarme, M; Domínguez-Juárez, J L; Vuong, L T

    2014-03-12

    Magneto-plasmonics is a designation generally associated with ferromagnetic-plasmonic materials because such optical responses from nonmagnetic materials alone are considered weak. Here, we show that there exists a switching transition between linear and nonlinear magneto-optical behaviors in noble-metal nanocolloids that is observable at ultralow illumination intensities and direct current magnetic fields. The response is attributed to polarization-dependent nonzero-time-averaged plasmonic loops, vortex power flows, and nanoparticle magnetization. This work identifies significant mechanical effects that subsequently exist via magnetic-dipole interactions.

  17. Optical trapping for complex fluid microfluidics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Vestad, Tor; Oakey, John; Marr, David W. M.

    2004-10-01

    Many proposed applications of microfluidics involve the manipulation of complex fluid mixtures such as blood or bacterial suspensions. To sort and handle the constituent particles within these suspensions, we have developed a miniaturized automated cell sorter using optical traps. This microfluidic cell sorter offers the potential to perform chip-top microbiology more rapidly and with less associated hardware and preparation time than other techniques currently available. To realize the potential of this technology in practical clinical and consumer lab-on-a-chip devices however, microscale control of not only particulates but also the fluid phase must be achieved. To address this, we have developed a mechanical fluid control scheme that integrates well with our optical separations approach. We demonstrate here a combined technique, one that employs both mechanical actuation and optical trapping for the precise control of complex suspensions. This approach enables both cell and particle separations as well as the subsequent fluid control required for the completion of complex analyses.

  18. Magneto-Optic Field Coupling in Optical Fiber Bragg Gratings

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Carman, Gregory P. (Inventor); Mohanchandra, Panduranga K. (Inventor); Emmons, Michael C. (Inventor); Richards, William Lance (Inventor)

    2016-01-01

    The invention is a magneto-optic coupled magnetic sensor that comprises a standard optical fiber Bragg grating system. The system includes an optical fiber with at least one Bragg grating therein. The optical fiber has at least an inner core and a cladding that surrounds the inner core. The optical fiber is part of an optical system that includes an interrogation device that provides a light wave through the optical fiber and a system to determine the change in the index of refraction of the optical fiber. The cladding of the optical fiber comprises at least a portion of which is made up of ferromagnetic particles so that the ferromagnetic particles are subject to the light wave provided by the interrogation system. When a magnetic field is present, the ferromagnetic particles change the optical properties of the sensor directly.

  19. Dual-axis vapor cell for simultaneous laser frequency stabilization on disparate optical transitions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jayakumar, Anupriya; Plotkin-Swing, Benjamin; Jamison, Alan O.; Gupta, Subhadeep

    2015-07-01

    We have developed a dual-axis ytterbium (Yb) vapor cell and used it to simultaneously address the two laser cooling transitions in Yb at wavelengths 399 nm and 556 nm, featuring the disparate linewidths of 2π × 29 MHz and 2π × 182 KHz, respectively. By utilizing different optical paths for the two wavelengths, we simultaneously obtain comparable optical densities suitable for saturated absorption spectroscopy for both the transitions and keep both the lasers frequency stabilized over several hours. We demonstrate that by appropriate control of the cell temperature profile, two atomic transitions differing in relative strength across a large range of over three orders of magnitude can be simultaneously addressed, making the device adaptable to a variety of spectroscopic needs. We also show that our observations can be understood with a simple theoretical model of the Yb vapor.

  20. Optical trapping for analytical biotechnology.

    PubMed

    Ashok, Praveen C; Dholakia, Kishan

    2012-02-01

    We describe the exciting advances of using optical trapping in the field of analytical biotechnology. This technique has opened up opportunities to manipulate biological particles at the single cell or even at subcellular levels which has allowed an insight into the physical and chemical mechanisms of many biological processes. The ability of this technique to manipulate microparticles and measure pico-Newton forces has found several applications such as understanding the dynamics of biological macromolecules, cell-cell interactions and the micro-rheology of both cells and fluids. Furthermore we may probe and analyse the biological world when combining trapping with analytical techniques such as Raman spectroscopy and imaging. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  1. Doughnut shape atom traps with arbitrary inclination

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Masegosa, R. R. Y.; Moya-Cessa, H.; Chavez-Cerda, S.

    2006-02-01

    Since the invention of magneto-optical trap (MOT), there have been several experimental and theoretical studies of the density distribution in these devices. To the best of our knowledge, only horizontal orbital traps have been observed, perpendicular to the coil axis. In this work we report the observation of distributions of trapped atoms in pure circular orbits without a nucleus whose orbital plane is tilted up to 90 degrees with respect to the horizontal plane. We have used a stabilized time phase optical array in our experiments and conventional equipment used for MOT.

  2. Magneto-optical spectra of transition metal dichalcogenides: A comparative study

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Ho, Yen-Hung; Department of Physics, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan; Chiu, Chih-Wei

    2014-12-01

    Following our previous work [Ho et al., Phys. Rev. B 89, 155316 (2014)], we systematically calculate the magneto-optical properties of various transition metal dichalcogenide monolayers. The intrinsic spin-orbit coupling gives rise to the spin-split electronic states, while a perpendicular magnetic field further induces a valley splitting. In magneto-optical spectra with linearly polarized light, spectral features are spin and valley-polarized. Compounds are different from one another in terms of transition energies and appearance of twin peaks. Our numerical results can serve as a guide for future experimental identification.

  3. Collisional Decoherence in Trapped-Atom Interferometers that use Nondegenerate Sources

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2009-01-22

    a magneto - optical trap . The trap is switched off and the atomic cloud begins to fall due to gravity. At the time t=0, the cloud is illuminated with...model is used to find the optimal operating conditions of the interferometer and direct Monte-Carlo simulation of the interferometer is used to...A major difficulty with all trapped -atom interferometers that use optical pulses is that the residual potential along the guide causes

  4. Linear and nonlinear magneto-optical properties of monolayer phosphorene

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nguyen, Chuong V.; Ngoc Hieu, Nguyen; Duque, C. A.; Quoc Khoa, Doan; Van Hieu, Nguyen; Van Tung, Luong; Vinh Phuc, Huynh

    2017-01-01

    We theoretically study the magneto-optical properties of monolayer phosphorene under a perpendicular magnetic field. We evaluate linear, third-order nonlinear, and total absorption coefficients and relative refractive index changes as functions of the photon energy and the magnetic field, and show that they are strongly influenced by the magnetic field. The magneto-optical absorption coefficients and relative refractive index changes appear in two different regimes: the microwave to THz and the visible frequency. The amplitude of intra-band transition peaks is larger than that of the inter-band transitions. The resonant peaks are blue-shifted with the magnetic field. Our results demonstrate the potential of monolayer phosphorene as a new two-dimensional material for applications in nano-electronic and optical devices as a promising alternative to graphene.

  5. Optical atomic magnetometer

    DOEpatents

    Budker, Dmitry; Higbie, James; Corsini, Eric P.

    2013-11-19

    An optical atomic magnetometers is provided operating on the principles of nonlinear magneto-optical rotation. An atomic vapor is optically pumped using linearly polarized modulated light. The vapor is then probed using a non-modulated linearly polarized light beam. The resulting modulation in polarization angle of the probe light is detected and used in a feedback loop to induce self-oscillation at the resonant frequency.

  6. Heterostructure of ferromagnetic and ferroelectric materials with magneto-optic and electro-optic effects

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Zou, Yingyin Kevin (Inventor); Jiang, Hua (Inventor); Li, Kewen Kevin (Inventor); Guo, Xiaomei (Inventor)

    2012-01-01

    A heterostructure of multiferroics or magnetoelectrics (ME) was disclosed. The film has both ferromagnetic and ferroelectric properties, as well as magneto-optic (MO) and electro-optic (EO) properties. Oxide buffer layers were employed to allow grown a cracking-free heterostructure a solution coating method.

  7. Optical trapping of core-shell magnetic microparticles by cylindrical vector beams

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Zhong, Min-Cheng; Gong, Lei; Li, Di

    2014-11-03

    Optical trapping of core-shell magnetic microparticles is experimentally demonstrated by using cylindrical vector beams. Second, we investigate the optical trapping efficiencies. The results show that radially and azimuthally polarized beams exhibit higher axial trapping efficiencies than the Gaussian beam. Finally, a trapped particle is manipulated to kill a cancer cell. The results make possible utilizing magnetic particles for optical manipulation, which is an important advantage for magnetic particles as labeling agent in targeted medicine and biological analysis.

  8. Servo control of an optical trap.

    PubMed

    Wulff, Kurt D; Cole, Daniel G; Clark, Robert L

    2007-08-01

    A versatile optical trap has been constructed to control the position of trapped objects and ultimately to apply specified forces using feedback control. While the design, development, and use of optical traps has been extensive and feedback control has played a critical role in pushing the state of the art, few comprehensive examinations of feedback control of optical traps have been undertaken. Furthermore, as the requirements are pushed to ever smaller distances and forces, the performance of optical traps reaches limits. It is well understood that feedback control can result in both positive and negative effects in controlled systems. We give an analysis of the trapping limits as well as introducing an optical trap with a feedback control scheme that dramatically improves an optical trap's sensitivity at low frequencies.

  9. Density matrix perturbation theory for magneto-optical response of periodic insulators

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lebedeva, Irina; Tokatly, Ilya; Rubio, Angel

    2015-03-01

    Density matrix perturbation theory offers an ideal theoretical framework for the description of response of solids to arbitrary electromagnetic fields. In particular, it allows to consider perturbations introduced by uniform electric and magnetic fields under periodic boundary conditions, though the corresponding potentials break the translational invariance of the Hamiltonian. We have implemented the density matrix perturbation theory in the open-source Octopus code on the basis of the efficient Sternheimer approach. The procedures for responses of different order to electromagnetic fields, including electric polarizability, orbital magnetic susceptibility and magneto-optical response, have been developed and tested by comparison with the results for finite systems and for wavefunction-based perturbation theory, which is already available in the code. Additional analysis of the orbital magneto-optical response is performed on the basis of analytical models. Symmetry limitations to observation of the magneto-optical response are discussed. The financial support from the Marie Curie Fellowship PIIF-GA-2012-326435 (RespSpatDisp) is gratefully acknowledged.

  10. Advanced magneto-optical microscopy: Imaging from picoseconds to centimeters - imaging spin waves and temperature distributions (invited)

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Urs, Necdet Onur; Mozooni, Babak; Kustov, Mikhail

    2016-05-15

    Recent developments in the observation of magnetic domains and domain walls by wide-field optical microscopy based on the magneto-optical Kerr, Faraday, Voigt, and Gradient effect are reviewed. Emphasis is given to the existence of higher order magneto-optical effects for advanced magnetic imaging. Fundamental concepts and advances in methodology are discussed that allow for imaging of magnetic domains on various length and time scales. Time-resolved imaging of electric field induced domain wall rotation is shown. Visualization of magnetization dynamics down to picosecond temporal resolution for the imaging of spin-waves and magneto-optical multi-effect domain imaging techniques for obtaining vectorial information are demonstrated.more » Beyond conventional domain imaging, the use of a magneto-optical indicator technique for local temperature sensing is shown.« less

  11. Statistical Modeling of an Optically Trapped Cilium

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Flaherty, Justin; Resnick, Andrew

    We explore, analytically and experimentally, the stochastic dynamics of a biologically significant slender microcantilever, the primary cilium, held within an optical trap. Primary cilia are cellular organelles, present on most vertebrate cells, hypothesized to function as a fluid flow sensor. The mechanical properties of a cilium remain incompletely characterized. Optical trapping is an ideal method to probe the mechanical response of a cilium due to the spatial localization and non-contact nature of the applied force. However, analysis of an optically trapped cilium is complicated both by the geometry of a cilium and boundary conditions. Here, we present experimentally measured mean-squared displacement data of trapped cilia where the trapping force is oppositely directed to the elastic restoring force of the ciliary axoneme, analytical modeling results deriving the mean-squared displacement of a trapped cilium using the Langevin approach, and apply our analytical results to the experimental data. We demonstrate that mechanical properties of the cilium can be accurately determined and efficiently extracted from the data using our model. It is hoped that improved measurements will result in deeper understanding of the biological function of cellular flow sensing by this organelle.

  12. Quantum Error Correction with a Globally-Coupled Array of Neutral Atom Qubits

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2013-02-01

    magneto - optical trap ) located at the center of the science cell. Fluorescence...Bottle beam trap GBA Gaussian beam array EMCCD electron multiplying charge coupled device microsec. microsecond MOT Magneto - optical trap QEC quantum error correction qubit quantum bit ...developed and implemented an array of neutral atom qubits in optical traps for studies of quantum error correction. At the end of the three year

  13. Magneto-optic gradient effect in domain-wall images: At the crossroads of magneto-optics and micromagnetics

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Kambersky, V.; Schaefer, R.; Leibniz Institute for Solid State and Materials Research, Helmholtzstrasse 20, 01069 Dresden

    2011-07-15

    An anomalous symmetry of magneto-optical images of ferromagnetic domain walls was reported by Schaefer and Hubert [Phys. Status Solidi A 118, 271 (1990)] and interpreted in terms of light amplitudes proportional to the magnetization gradient. We present analytic and numerical calculations supporting such proportionality under additional conditions implied by classical rules of micromagnetics and address some objections presented by Banno [Phys. Rev. A 77, 033818 (2008)] against such proportionality.

  14. Characterization of photoactivated singlet oxygen damage in single-molecule optical trap experiments.

    PubMed

    Landry, Markita P; McCall, Patrick M; Qi, Zhi; Chemla, Yann R

    2009-10-21

    Optical traps or "tweezers" use high-power, near-infrared laser beams to manipulate and apply forces to biological systems, ranging from individual molecules to cells. Although previous studies have established that optical tweezers induce photodamage in live cells, the effects of trap irradiation have yet to be examined in vitro, at the single-molecule level. In this study, we investigate trap-induced damage in a simple system consisting of DNA molecules tethered between optically trapped polystyrene microspheres. We show that exposure to the trapping light affects the lifetime of the tethers, the efficiency with which they can be formed, and their structure. Moreover, we establish that these irreversible effects are caused by oxidative damage from singlet oxygen. This reactive state of molecular oxygen is generated locally by the optical traps in the presence of a sensitizer, which we identify as the trapped polystyrene microspheres. Trap-induced oxidative damage can be reduced greatly by working under anaerobic conditions, using additives that quench singlet oxygen, or trapping microspheres lacking the sensitizers necessary for singlet state photoexcitation. Our findings are relevant to a broad range of trap-based single-molecule experiments-the most common biological application of optical tweezers-and may guide the development of more robust experimental protocols.

  15. Characterization of Photoactivated Singlet Oxygen Damage in Single-Molecule Optical Trap Experiments

    PubMed Central

    Landry, Markita P.; McCall, Patrick M.; Qi, Zhi; Chemla, Yann R.

    2009-01-01

    Abstract Optical traps or “tweezers” use high-power, near-infrared laser beams to manipulate and apply forces to biological systems, ranging from individual molecules to cells. Although previous studies have established that optical tweezers induce photodamage in live cells, the effects of trap irradiation have yet to be examined in vitro, at the single-molecule level. In this study, we investigate trap-induced damage in a simple system consisting of DNA molecules tethered between optically trapped polystyrene microspheres. We show that exposure to the trapping light affects the lifetime of the tethers, the efficiency with which they can be formed, and their structure. Moreover, we establish that these irreversible effects are caused by oxidative damage from singlet oxygen. This reactive state of molecular oxygen is generated locally by the optical traps in the presence of a sensitizer, which we identify as the trapped polystyrene microspheres. Trap-induced oxidative damage can be reduced greatly by working under anaerobic conditions, using additives that quench singlet oxygen, or trapping microspheres lacking the sensitizers necessary for singlet state photoexcitation. Our findings are relevant to a broad range of trap-based single-molecule experiments—the most common biological application of optical tweezers—and may guide the development of more robust experimental protocols. PMID:19843445

  16. Magneto-photonic crystal optical sensors with sensitive covers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dissanayake, Neluka; Levy, Miguel; Chakravarty, A.; Heiden, P. A.; Chen, N.; Fratello, V. J.

    2011-08-01

    We report on a magneto-photonic crystal on-chip optical sensor for specific analyte detection with polypyrrole and gold nano particles as modified photonic crystal waveguide cover layers. The reaction of the active sensor material with various analytes modifies the electronic structure of the sensor layer causing changes in its refractive index and a strong transduction signal. Magneto-photonic crystal enhanced polarization rotation sensitive to the nature of the cover layer detects the index modification upon analyte adsorption. A high degree of selectivity and sensitivity are observed for aqueous ammonia and methanol with polypyrrole and for thiolated-gold- with gold-nanoparticles covers.

  17. Measurement of elastic light scattering from two optically trapped microspheres and red blood cells in a transparent medium.

    PubMed

    Kinnunen, Matti; Kauppila, Antti; Karmenyan, Artashes; Myllylä, Risto

    2011-09-15

    Optical tweezers can be used to manipulate small objects and cells. A trap can be used to fix the position of a particle during light scattering measurements. The places of two separately trapped particles can also be changed. In this Letter we present elastic light scattering measurements as a function of scattering angle when two trapped spheres are illuminated with a He-Ne laser. This setup is suitable for trapping noncharged homogeneous spheres. We also demonstrate measurement of light scattering patterns from two separately trapped red blood cells. Two different illumination schemes are used for both samples.

  18. Compact setup for the production of {sup 87}Rb |F = 2, m{sub F} = + 2〉 Bose-Einstein condensates in a hybrid trap

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Nolli, Raffaele; Venturelli, Michela; Marmugi, Luca, E-mail: l.marmugi@ucl.ac.uk

    We present a compact experimental apparatus for Bose-Einstein condensation of {sup 87}Rb in the |F  =  2, m{sub F} = + 2〉 state. A pre-cooled atomic beam of {sup 87}Rb is obtained by using an unbalanced magneto-optical trap, allowing controlled transfer of trapped atoms from the first vacuum chamber to the science chamber. Here, atoms are transferred to a hybrid trap, as produced by overlapping a magnetic quadrupole trap with a far-detuned optical trap with crossed beam configuration, where forced radiofrequency evaporation is realized. The final evaporation leading to Bose-Einstein condensation is then performed by exponentially lowering the optical trapmore » depth. Control and stabilization systems of the optical trap beams are discussed in detail. The setup reliably produces a pure condensate in the |F = 2, m{sub F} = + 2〉 state in 50 s, which includes 33 s loading of the science magneto-optical trap and 17 s forced evaporation.« less

  19. Sub-nanosecond time-resolved near-field scanning magneto-optical microscope.

    PubMed

    Rudge, J; Xu, H; Kolthammer, J; Hong, Y K; Choi, B C

    2015-02-01

    We report on the development of a new magnetic microscope, time-resolved near-field scanning magneto-optical microscope, which combines a near-field scanning optical microscope and magneto-optical contrast. By taking advantage of the high temporal resolution of time-resolved Kerr microscope and the sub-wavelength spatial resolution of a near-field microscope, we achieved a temporal resolution of ∼50 ps and a spatial resolution of <100 nm. In order to demonstrate the spatiotemporal magnetic imaging capability of this microscope, the magnetic field pulse induced gyrotropic vortex dynamics occurring in 1 μm diameter, 20 nm thick CoFeB circular disks has been investigated. The microscope provides sub-wavelength resolution magnetic images of the gyrotropic motion of the vortex core at a resonance frequency of ∼240 MHz.

  20. Circular heat and momentum flux radiated by magneto-optical nanoparticles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ott, A.; Ben-Abdallah, P.; Biehs, S.-A.

    2018-05-01

    In the present article we investigate the heat and momentum fluxes radiated by a hot magneto-optical nanoparticle in its surroundings under the action of an external magnetic field. We show that the flux lines circulate in a confined region at a nanometric distance from the particle around the axis of the magnetic field in a vortexlike configuration. Moreover we prove that the spatial orientation of these vortices (clockwise or counterclockwise) is associated with the contribution of optical resonances with topological charges m =+1 or m =-1 to the thermal emission. This work paves the way for a geometric description of heat and momentum transport in lattices of magneto-optical particles. Moreover it could have important applications in the field of energy storage as well as in thermal management at nanoscale.

  1. Mode division multiplexing technology for single-fiber optical trapping axial-position adjustment.

    PubMed

    Liu, Zhihai; Wang, Lei; Liang, Peibo; Zhang, Yu; Yang, Jun; Yuan, Libo

    2013-07-15

    We demonstrate trapped yeast cell axial-position adjustment without moving the optical fiber in a single-fiber optical trapping system. The dynamic axial-position adjustment is realized by controlling the power ratio of the fundamental mode beam (LP01) and the low-order mode beam (LP11) generated in a normal single-core fiber. In order to separate the trapping positions produced by the two mode beams, we fabricate a special fiber tapered tip with a selective two-step method. A yeast cell of 6 μm diameter is moved along the optical axis direction for a distance of ~3 μm. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of the trapping position adjustment without moving the fiber for single-fiber optical tweezers. The excitation and utilization of multimode beams in a single fiber constitutes a new development for single-fiber optical trapping and makes possible more practical applications in biomedical research fields.

  2. A simple optical tweezers for trapping polystyrene particles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shiddiq, Minarni; Nasir, Zulfa; Yogasari, Dwiyana

    2013-09-01

    Optical tweezers is an optical trap. For decades, it has become an optical tool that can trap and manipulate any particle from the very small size like DNA to the big one like bacteria. The trapping force comes from the radiation pressure of laser light which is focused to a group of particles. Optical tweezers has been used in many research areas such as atomic physics, medical physics, biophysics, and chemistry. Here, a simple optical tweezers has been constructed using a modified Leybold laboratory optical microscope. The ocular lens of the microscope has been removed for laser light and digital camera accesses. A laser light from a Coherent diode laser with wavelength λ = 830 nm and power 50 mW is sent through an immersion oil objective lens with magnification 100 × and NA 1.25 to a cell made from microscope slides containing polystyrene particles. Polystyrene particles with size 3 μm and 10 μm are used. A CMOS Thorlabs camera type DCC1545M with USB Interface and Thorlabs camera lens 35 mm are connected to a desktop and used to monitor the trapping and measure the stiffness of the trap. The camera is accompanied by camera software which makes able for the user to capture and save images. The images are analyzed using ImageJ and Scion macro. The polystyrene particles have been trapped successfully. The stiffness of the trap depends on the size of the particles and the power of the laser. The stiffness increases linearly with power and decreases as the particle size larger.

  3. Sub-natural width resonances in Cs vapor confined in micrometric thickness optical cell

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cartaleva, S.; Krasteva, A.; Sargsyan, A.; Sarkisyan, D.; Slavov, D.; Vartanyan, T.

    2013-03-01

    We present here the behavior of Electromagnetically Induced Transparency (EIT), Velocity Selective Optical Pumping (VSOP) resonances and Velocity Selective Excitation (VSE) resonances observed in Cs vapor confined in а micrometric optical cell (MC) with thickness L = 6λ, λ = 852nm. For comparison of behavior of VSE resonance another conventional optical cell with thickness L=2.5 cm is used. Cells are irradiated in orthogonal to their windows directions by probe beam scanned on the Fg = 4 → Fe= 3, 4, 5 set of transitions and pump beam fixed at the Fg = 3 → Fe = 4 transition, on the D2 line of Cs. The enhanced absorption (fluorescence) narrow VSOP resonance at the closed transition transforms into reduced absorption (fluorescence) one with small increase of atomic concentration or light intensity. A striking difference appears between the VSE resonance broadening in L = 6λ and conventional L = 2.5cm cells.

  4. Heuristic Enhancement of Magneto-Optical Images for NDE

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cacciola, Matteo; Megali, Giuseppe; Pellicanò, Diego; Calcagno, Salvatore; Versaci, Mario; Morabito, FrancescoCarlo

    2010-12-01

    The quality of measurements in nondestructive testing and evaluation plays a key role in assessing the reliability of different inspection techniques. Each different technique, like the magneto-optic imaging here treated, is affected by some special types of noise which are related to the specific device used for their acquisition. Therefore, the design of even more accurate image processing is often required by relevant applications, for instance, in implementing integrated solutions for flaw detection and characterization. The aim of this paper is to propose a preprocessing procedure based on independent component analysis (ICA) to ease the detection of rivets and/or flaws in the specimens under test. A comparison of the proposed approach with some other advanced image processing methodologies used for denoising magneto-optic images (MOIs) is carried out, in order to show advantages and weakness of ICA in improving the accuracy and performance of the rivets/flaw detection.

  5. Characteristics of silicon-based Sagnac optical switches using magneto-optical micro-ring array

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ni, Shuang; Wu, Baojian; Liu, Yawen

    2018-01-01

    The miniaturization and integration of optical switches are necessary for photonic switching networks and the utilization of magneto optical effects is a promising candidate. We propose a Sagnac optical switch chip based on the principle of nonreciprocal phase shift (NPS) of the magneto-optical (MO) micro-ring (MOMR) array, composed of SiO2/Si/Ce:YIG/SGGG. The MO switching function is realized by controlling the drive current in the snake-like metal microstrip circuit layered on the MOMRs. The transmission characteristics of the Sagnac MO switch chip dependent on magnetization intensity, waveguide coupling coefficient and waveguide loss are simulated. By optimizing the coupling coefficients, we design an MO switch using two serial MOMRs with a circumference of 38.37 μm, and the 3dB bandwidth and the extinction ratio are respectively up to 1.6 nm and 50dB for the waveguide loss coefficient of ?. And the switching magnetization can be further reduced by increasing the number of parallel MOMRs. The frequency response of the MO Sagnac switch is analyzed as well.

  6. Iron-dextran complex: geometrical structure and magneto-optical features.

    PubMed

    Graczykowski, Bartłomiej; Dobek, Andrzej

    2011-11-15

    Molecular mass of the iron-dextran complex (M(w)=1133 kDa), diameter of its particles (∼8.3 nm) and the content of iron ions in the complex core (N(Fe)=6360) were determined by static light scattering, measurements of refractive index increment and the Cotton-Mouton effect in solution. The known number of iron ions permitted the calculation of the permanent magnetic dipole moment value to be μ(Fe)=3.17×10(-18) erg Oe(-1) and the determination of anisotropy of linear magneto-optical polarizabilities components as Δχ=9.2×10(-21) cm(3). Knowing both values and the value of the mean linear optical polarizability α=7.3×10(-20) cm(3), it was possible to show that the total measured CM effect was due to the reorientation of the permanent and the induced magnetic dipole moments of the complex. Analysis of the measured magneto-optical birefringence indicated very small optical anisotropy of linear optical polarizability components, κ(α), which suggested a homogeneous structure of particles of spherical symmetry. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

  7. A novel magneto-optical crystal Yb:TbVO4

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhu, Xianchao; Tu, Heng; Hu, Zhanggui

    2018-04-01

    Highly transparent Yb:TbVO4 single crystal with dimensions of Ø27 × 41 mm3 alomost without scattering defects has been successfully grown by Czochralski technique. The spectra, thermal properties and laser-induced damage threshold were investigated in detailed. The Faraday rotation (FR) measurement was carried out by means of extinction method. The Verdet constant comes up to 80 rad m-1 T-1 at 1064 nm, significantly larger than TbVO4 (58 rad m-1 T-1) and TGG (40 rad m-1 T-1) reported. Meanwhile, the as-grown crystal presents lower absorption coefficient and higher magneto-optical figure of merit at measured wavelength in comparison with TGG. Moreover, the crystal exhibits a substantially improved extinction ratio (42 dB) in contrast with TbVO4 (29 dB), and exceeds the highest value of TGG (40 dB). These advantages make Yb:TbVO4 a highly promising magneto-optical material candidate for optical isolators in the visible-near infrared region.

  8. Enhancement of magneto-optical Faraday effects and extraordinary optical transmission in a tri-layer structure with rectangular annular arrays.

    PubMed

    Lei, Chengxin; Chen, Leyi; Tang, Zhixiong; Li, Daoyong; Cheng, Zhenzhi; Tang, Shaolong; Du, Youwei

    2016-02-15

    The properties of optics and magneto-optical Faraday effects in a metal-dielectric tri-layer structure with subwavelength rectangular annular arrays are investigated. It is noteworthy that we obtained the strongly enhanced Faraday rotation of the desired sign along with high transmittance by optimizing the parameters of the nanostructure in the visible spectral ranges. In this system, we obtained two extraordinary optical transmission (EOT) resonant peaks with enhanced Faraday rotations, whose signs are opposite, which may provide the possibility of designing multi-channel magneto-optical devices. Study results show that the maximum of the figure of merit (FOM) of the structure can be obtained between two EOT resonant peaks accompanied by an enhanced Faraday rotation. The positions of the maximum value of the FOM and resonant peaks of transmission along with a large Faraday rotation can be tailored by simply adjusting the geometric parameters of our models. These research findings are of great importance for future applications of magneto-optical devices.

  9. Optical trapping of nanoshells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hester, Brooke C.; Crawford, Alice; Kishore, Rani B.; Helmerson, Kristian; Halas, Naomi J.; Levin, Carly

    2007-09-01

    We investigate near-resonant trapping of Rayleigh particles in optical tweezers. Although optical forces due to a near-resonant laser beam have been extensively studied for atoms, the situation for larger particles is that the laser wavelength is far from any absorption resonance. Theory predicts, however, that the trapping force exerted on a Rayleigh particle is enhanced, and may be three to fifty times larger for frequencies near resonance than for frequencies far off resonance. The ability to selectively trap only particles with a given absorption peak may have many practical applications. In order to investigate near-resonant trapping we are using nanoshells, particles with a dielectric core and metallic coating that can exhibit plasmon resonances. The resonances of the nanoshells can be tuned by adjusting the ratio of the radius of the dielectric core, r I, to the overall radius, r II, which includes the thickness of the metallic coating. Our nanoshells, fabricated at Rice University, consist of a silica core with a gold coating. Using back focal plane detection, we measure the trap stiffness of a single focus optical trap (optical tweezers), from a diode laser at 853 nm for nanoshells with several different r I/r II ratios.

  10. 3-dimensional dark traps for low refractive index bio-cells using a single optical fiber Bessel beam.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Yu; Tang, Xiaoyun; Zhang, Yaxun; Su, Wenjie; Liu, Zhihai; Yang, Xinghua; Zhang, Jianzhong; Yang, Jun; Oh, Kyunghwan; Yuan, Libo

    2018-06-15

    We proposed and experimentally demonstrated 3-dimensional dark traps for low refractive index bio-cells using a single optical fiber Bessel beam. The Bessel beam was produced by concatenating single-mode fiber and a step index multimode fiber, which was then focused by a high refractive index glass microsphere integrated on the fiber end facet. The focused Bessel beam provided two dark fields along the axial direction, where stable trapping of low refractive index bio-cells was realized in a high refractive index liquid bath. The all-fiber and seamlessly integrated structure of the proposed scheme can find ample potential as a micro-optical probe in in situ characterization and manipulation of multiple bio-cells with refractive indices lower than that of the liquid bath.

  11. Analysis of fatigue characteristic of sm-substituted DyFeCo magneto-optical films

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Zuoyi; Wang, Ke; Yang, Xiaofei; Li, Zhen; Lin, Gengqi

    2003-04-01

    The fatigue characteristic of the amorphous Sm-substituted DyFeCo magneto-optical alloy films fabricated by R.F. magnetron sputtering method were investigated by accelerated pulse training method under the condition of magnetic field modulation plus laser pulse irradiation. The evaluation of fatigue characteristic is determined from the static magneto-optical signal readout level after several writing/erasing repetitions compared with initial level. The experimental dependence of fatigue characteristics is in good agreement with the model based on the JMA equation. Furthermore, the Avrami factor can be derived from the model. Experimental results show that it is very effective in studying the writing/erasing ability of magneto-optical films employed the method of combined the accelerated pulse training with the JMA equation and Sm-substituted HRE-TM alloys can act as a practical medium for MO storage at short wavelength.

  12. Development of and Improved Magneto-Optic/Eddy-Current Imager

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    1997-04-01

    Magneto-optic/eddy-current imaging technology has been developed and approved for inspection of cracks in aging aircraft. This relatively new nondestructive test method gives the inspector the ability to quickly generate real-time eddy-current images...

  13. Dynamic analysis of trapping and escaping in dual beam optical trap

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Wenqiang; Hu, Huizhu; Su, Heming; Li, Zhenggang; Shen, Yu

    2016-10-01

    In this paper, we simulate the dynamic movement of a dielectric sphere in optical trap. This dynamic analysis can be used to calibrate optical forces, increase trapping efficiency and measure viscous coefficient of surrounding medium. Since an accurate dynamic analysis is based on a detailed force calculation, we calculate all forces a sphere receives. We get the forces of dual-beam gradient radiation pressure on a micron-sized dielectric sphere in the ray optics regime and utilize Einstein-Ornstein-Uhlenbeck to deal with its Brownian motion forces. Hydrodynamic viscous force also exists when the sphere moves in liquid. Forces from buoyance and gravity are also taken into consideration. Then we simulate trajectory of a sphere when it is subject to all these forces in a dual optical trap. From our dynamic analysis, the sphere can be trapped at an equilibrium point in static water, although it permanently fluctuates around the equilibrium point due to thermal effects. We go a step further to analyze the effects of misalignment of two optical traps. Trapping and escaping phenomena of the sphere in flowing water are also simulated. In flowing water, the sphere is dragged away from the equilibrium point. This dragging distance increases with the decrease of optical power, which results in escaping of the sphere with optical power below a threshold. In both trapping and escaping process we calculate the forces and position of the sphere. Finally, we analyze a trapping region in dual optical tweezers.

  14. A Novel Defect Inspection Method for Semiconductor Wafer Based on Magneto-Optic Imaging

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pan, Z.; Chen, L.; Li, W.; Zhang, G.; Wu, P.

    2013-03-01

    The defects of semiconductor wafer may be generated from the manufacturing processes. A novel defect inspection method of semiconductor wafer is presented in this paper. The method is based on magneto-optic imaging, which involves inducing eddy current into the wafer under test, and detecting the magnetic flux associated with eddy current distribution in the wafer by exploiting the Faraday rotation effect. The magneto-optic image being generated may contain some noises that degrade the overall image quality, therefore, in this paper, in order to remove the unwanted noise present in the magneto-optic image, the image enhancement approach using multi-scale wavelet is presented, and the image segmentation approach based on the integration of watershed algorithm and clustering strategy is given. The experimental results show that many types of defects in wafer such as hole and scratch etc. can be detected by the method proposed in this paper.

  15. Nonlinear optical magnetometry with accessible in situ optical squeezing

    DOE PAGES

    Otterstrom, N.; Pooser, R. C.; Lawrie, B. J.

    2014-11-14

    In this paper, we demonstrate compact and accessible squeezed-light magnetometry using four-wave mixing in a single hot rubidium vapor cell. The strong intrinsic coherence of the four-wave mixing process results in nonlinear magneto-optical rotation (NMOR) on each mode of a two-mode relative-intensity squeezed state. Finally, this framework enables 4.7 dB of quantum noise reduction while the opposing polarization rotation signals of the probe and conjugate fields add to increase the total signal to noise ratio.

  16. Mathematical Model of the One-stage Magneto-optical Sensor Based on Faraday Effect

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Babaev, O. G.; Paranin, V. D.; Sinitsin, L. I.

    2018-01-01

    The aim of this work is to refine a model of magneto-optical sensors based on Faraday’s longitudinal magneto-optical effect. The tasks of the study include computer modeling and analysis of the transfer characteristic of a single-stage magneto-optical sensor for various polarization of the input beam and non-ideal optical components. The proposed mathematical model and software make it possible to take into account the non-ideal characteristics of film polaroids observed in operation in the near infrared region and at increased temperatures. On the basis of the results of the model analysis it was found that the dependence of normalized transmission T(γ2) has periodic nature. Choosing the angle (γ 2-γ 1) makes it possible to shift the initial operation point and change the sensitivity dT/dγ 2. The influence of the input beam polarization increases with the increase of polaroid parameter deviation from ideal and shows itself as reduction of modulation depth and angular shift of the sensor conversion response.

  17. Nanophotonic light-trapping theory for solar cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yu, Zongfu; Raman, Aaswath; Fan, Shanhui

    2011-11-01

    Conventional light-trapping theory, based on a ray-optics approach, was developed for standard thick photovoltaic cells. The classical theory established an upper limit for possible absorption enhancement in this context and provided a design strategy for reaching this limit. This theory has become the foundation for light management in bulk silicon PV cells, and has had enormous influence on the optical design of solar cells in general. This theory, however, is not applicable in the nanophotonic regime. Here we develop a statistical temporal coupled-mode theory of light trapping based on a rigorous electromagnetic approach. Our theory reveals that the standard limit can be substantially surpassed when optical modes in the active layer are confined to deep-subwavelength scale, opening new avenues for highly efficient next-generation solar cells.

  18. High-resolution laser spectroscopy of hot Cs and Rb vapor confined in a thin optical cell

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Todorov, P.; Krasteva, A.; Vartanyan, T.; Todorov, G.; Sarkisyan, D.; Cartaleva, S.

    2018-03-01

    We propose a novel use of an optical cell of micrometer thickness filled with Cs vapor in view of studying the collisions between two different alkali atoms of strongly different densities. We demonstrate narrow and good-contrast sub-Doppler resonances at the Rb D2 line for a mean-free-path of the Cs atoms comparable to the optical cell longitudinal dimension; the resonances are completely destroyed when the mean-free-path of the Cs atoms is more than two orders of magnitude shorter than the longitudinal dimension of the thin cell.

  19. Reduction of Trapped-Ion Anomalous Heating by in situ Surface Plasma Cleaning

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2015-04-29

    the trap chip temperature. To load ions, we initially cool 88Sr atoms into a remotely-located magneto - optical trap (MOT), then use a resonant push beam... trap heating rates [10]. Furthermore, some previous experiments have shown an improvement in the heating rates of surface-electrode ion traps after...rate when the trap chip is held at 4 K is not significantly improved by the plasma cleaning. While the observed frequency scaling is not the same in

  20. Radiation pressure on a biconcave human Red Blood Cell and the resulting deformation in a pair of parallel optical traps.

    PubMed

    Liao, Guan-Bo; Chen, Yin-Quan; Bareil, Paul B; Sheng, Yunlong; Chiou, Arthur; Chang, Ming-Shien

    2014-10-01

    We calculated the three-dimensional optical stress distribution and the resulting deformation on a biconcave human red blood cell (RBC) in a pair of parallel optical trap. We assumed a Gaussian intensity distribution with a spherical wavefront for each trapping beam and calculated the optical stress from the momentum transfer associated with the reflection and refraction of the incident photons at each interface. The RBC was modelled as a biconcave thin elastic membrane with uniform elasticity and a uniform thickness of 0.25 μm. The resulting cell deformation was determined from the optical stress distribution by finite element software, Comsol Structure Mechanics Module, with Young's modulus (E) as a fitting parameter in order to fit the theoretical results for cell elongation to our experimental data. Copyright © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  1. An efficient biosensor made of an electromagnetic trap and a magneto-resistive sensor.

    PubMed

    Li, Fuquan; Kosel, Jürgen

    2014-09-15

    Magneto-resistive biosensors have been found to be useful because of their high sensitivity, low cost, small size, and direct electrical output. They use super-paramagnetic beads to label a biological target and detect it via sensing the stray field. In this paper, we report a new setup for magnetic biosensors, replacing the conventional "sandwich" concept with an electromagnetic trap. We demonstrate the capability of the biosensor in the detection of E. coli. The trap is formed by a current-carrying microwire that attracts the magnetic beads into a sensing space on top of a tunnel magneto-resistive sensor. The sensor signal depends on the number of beads in the sensing space, which depends on the size of the beads. This enables the detection of biological targets, because such targets increase the volume of the beads. Experiments were carried out with a 6 µm wide microwire, which attracted the magnetic beads from a distance of 60 μm, when a current of 30 mA was applied. A sensing space of 30 µm in length and 6 µm in width was defined by the magnetic sensor. The results showed that individual E. coli bacterium inside the sensing space could be detected using super-paramagnetic beads that are 2.8 µm in diameter. The electromagnetic trap setup greatly simplifies the device and reduces the detection process to two steps: (i) mixing the bacteria with magnetic beads and (ii) applying the sample solution to the sensor for measurement, which can be accomplished within about 30 min with a sample volume in the µl range. This setup also ensures that the biosensor can be cleaned easily and re-used immediately. The presented setup is readily integrated on chips via standard microfabrication techniques. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  2. Measurement of the Length of an Optical Trap

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Wrbanek, Susan Y.

    2010-01-01

    NASA Glenn has been involved in developing optical trapping and optical micromanipulation techniques in order to develop a tool that can be used to probe, characterize, and assemble nano and microscale materials to create microscale sensors for harsh flight environments. In order to be able to assemble a sensor or probe candidate sensor material, it is useful to know how far an optical trap can reach; that is, the distance beyond/below the stable trapping point through which an object will be drawn into the optical trap. Typically, to measure the distance over which an optical trap would influence matter in a horizontal (perpendicular to beam propagation) direction, it was common to hold an object in one optical trap, place a second optical trap a known distance away, turn off the first optical trap, and note if the object was moved into the second trap when it was turned on. The disadvantage of this technique is that it only gives information of trap influence distance in horizontal (x y) directions. No information about the distance of the influence of the trap is gained in the direction of propagation of the beam (the z direction). A method was developed to use a time-of-flight technique to determine the length along the propagation direction of an optical trap beam over which an object may be drawn into the optical trap. Test objects (polystyrene microspheres) were held in an optical trap in a water-filled sample chamber and raised to a pre-determined position near the top of the sample chamber. Next, the test objects were released by blocking the optical trap beam. The test objects were allowed to fall through the water for predetermined periods of time, at the end of which the trapping beam was unblocked. It was noted whether or not the test object returned to the optical trap or continued to fall. This determination of the length of an optical trap's influence by this manner assumes that the test object falls through the water in the sample chamber at

  3. Optical waveguides in magneto-optical glasses fabricated by proton implantation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, Chun-Xiao; Li, Yu-Wen; Zheng, Rui-Lin; Fu, Li-Li; Zhang, Liao-Lin; Guo, Hai-Tao; Zhou, Zhi-Guang; Li, Wei-Nan; Lin, She-Bao; Wei, Wei

    2016-11-01

    Planar waveguides in magneto-optical glasses (Tb3+-doped aluminum borosilicate glasses) have been produced by a 550-keV proton implantation at a dose of 4.0×1016 ions/cm2 for the first time to our knowledge. After annealing at 260 °C for 1.0 h, the dark-mode spectra and near-field intensity distributions are measured by the prism-coupling and end-face coupling methods. The damage profile, refractive index distribution and light propagation mode of the planar waveguide are numerically calculated by SRIM 2010, RCM and FD-BPM, respectively. The effects of implantation on the structural and optical properties are investigated by Raman and absorption spectra. It suggests that the proton-implanted Tb3+-doped aluminum borosilicate glass waveguide is a good candidate for a waveguide isolator in optical fiber communication and all-optical communication.

  4. Strong magneto-optical effects in A Cr2O4 (A =Fe,Co ) spinel oxides generated by tetrahedrally coordinated transition metal ions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kocsis, V.; Bordács, S.; Deisenhofer, J.; Kiss, L. F.; Ohgushi, K.; Kaneko, Y.; Tokura, Y.; Kézsmárki, I.

    2018-03-01

    Magneto-optical effects have been investigated over the infrared visible spectral range in A Cr2O4 (A =Fe,Co ) spinel oxides with noncollinear spin orders in their ground states. We found large magneto-optical Kerr rotation and ellipticity at the on-site d -d transitions of the A2 + ions located within the charge gap. The magneto-optical Kerr rotation of ϑKerr≈12∘ observed in CoCr2O4 is unprecedentedly large among magnetic semiconductors and points toward the uniqueness of tetrahedrally coordinated Co2 + ions in generating strong magneto-optical response. Criteria of strong magneto-optical effects emerging at on-site d -d transitions of transition metal ions are discussed.

  5. X-ray magneto-optic KERR effect studies of spring magnet heterostructures.

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Kortright, J. B.; Kim, S.-K.; Fullerton, E. E.

    2000-11-01

    The complex 3-dimensional magnetization reversal behavior of Sin-Co/Fe exchange spring films is used to test the sensitivity of different resonant soft x-ray magneto-optical Kerr effect (MOKE) measurements to changes in longitudinal and transverse moments within the SOIIFe layer and to changes in these moments in depth within the Fe layer. As in the visible MOKE, changes in longitudinal and net transverse moments are resolved by measuring both Kerr rotation and intensity loops in the near the Fe 2p core resonance. These x-ray MOKE signals measured using linear incident polarization are more directly interpreted in terms of longitudinal and transverse momentsmore » than are the same signals measured using elliptical polarization. Varying photon energy near the Fe L3line is shown to be an effective means of resolving distinctly different reversal behavior at the top and bottom of the 20 nm thick Fe layer resulting from the strong exchange coupling at the Sin-Co/Fe interface. Measured x-ray MOKE spectra and signals are in qualitative agreement with those calculated using standard magneto-optical formalisms incorporating interference between different layers and measured helicity-dependent magneto-optical constants for Fe.« less

  6. Magneto-optical mode conversion in a hybrid glass waveguide made by sol-gel and ion-exchange techniques

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Royer, François; Amata, Hadi; Parsy, François; Jamon, Damien; Ghibaudo, Elise; Broquin, Jean-Emmanuel; Neveu, Sophie

    2012-01-01

    The integration of magneto-optical materials with classical technologies being still a difficult problem, this study explores the possibility to realize a mode converter based on a hybrid structure. A composite magneto-optical layer made of a silica/zirconia matrix doped by magnetic nanoparticles is coated on the top face of ion-exchanged glass waveguides. Optical characterizations that have been carried out demonstrated the efficiency of these hybrid structures in terms of lateral confinement. Furthermore, TE to TM mode conversion has been observed when a longitudinal magnetic field is applied to the device. The amount of this conversion is analysed taking into account the magneto-optical confinement and the modal birefringence of the structure.

  7. Magneto-optic imaging inspection of selected corrosion specimens : technical note

    DOT National Transportation Integrated Search

    1992-06-21

    A feasibility demonstration was conducted at the facilities of Physical Research Instrumentation Company, (RI) in Redmond, Washington. The purpose of the demonstration was to compare the effectiveness of the PRI Model 301-1 magneto-optic imaging (MOI...

  8. Optical and magneto-optical properties of zinc-oxide nanostructures grown by the low-temperature chemical route

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Willander, M.; Alnoor, H.; Savoyant, A.; Adam, Rania E.; Nur, O.

    2018-02-01

    We demonstrate that the low temperature synthesis chemical route can be utilized to control the functionality of zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles (NPs) and nanorods (NRs) for optical and magneto-optical performance. Different structural, optical, electro- and magneto-optical results will be displayed and analyzed. In the first part, we show how high quality ZnO NPs can be efficient for photodegradation using ultra-violet radiation. In the second part we will present our recent results on the control of the core defects in cobalt doped ZnO NR. Here and by using electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) measurements, the substitution of Co2+ ions in the ZnO NRs crystal is shown. The relation between the incorporation and core defects concentration will be discussed. The findings give access to the magnetic anisotropy of ZnO NRs grown by the low temperature chemical route and can lead to demonstrate room temperature ferromagnetism in nanostructures with potential for different device applications.

  9. The design and fabrication of an inverted IR optical trap

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhu, Tianchun; Feng, Xiuzhou; Fang, Jianxing

    2005-02-01

    Optical tweezers offer the unique ability to manipulate particles dispersed in a liquid medium without any mechanical contact. It can trap, move and position a wide variety of living cells and sub-cellular particles. The nature of the technique has led to its predominant use in the fields of medicine and microbiology. On the other hand, different biomedical experiments require the traps with different structures and characteristics. Commercial optical tweezers are very expensive and they can"t meet the demands of some special experiments. In this paper, the authors describe a detailed recipe for fabrication of an inverted optical trap. The system uses a single mode laser with the wavelength of 1064 nm so as not to damage the living organisms. The system has a platform whose temperature is tunable at a range of 20-40°C and can be stabilized by a controller. The system is also has a video device. The significant advantage of the system is low cost and easy to be operated. It especially fits the labs that are short of fund but interested in the application of optical trap in research of living cells. By means of the system, the authors do the experiments on control over the neuronal growth successfully.

  10. Magneto-optical effects in semimetallic Bi 1–xSb x (x=0.015)

    DOE PAGES

    Dordevic, S. V.; Wolf, M. S.; Stojilovic, N.; ...

    2012-09-12

    We report the results of infrared and magneto-optical spectroscopy study on electrodynamic response of bismuth doped with 1.5% of antimony. The spectra are presented for temperatures down to 4.2 K, and in magnetic fields as high as 18 T. The results reveal strong magneto-optical activity, similar to pure bismuth, however there are some differences introduced by antimony doping. Analysis of optical functions reveals that the two type of charge carriers respond differently to external magnetic field. Finally, when the system enters the extreme quantum regime, both the inter- and intraband Landau Level transition are observed in the spectra.

  11. Micro-Raman Spectroscopy of Silver Nanoparticle Induced Stress on Optically-Trapped Stem Cells

    PubMed Central

    Bankapur, Aseefhali; Krishnamurthy, R. Sagar; Zachariah, Elsa; Santhosh, Chidangil; Chougule, Basavaraj; Praveen, Bhavishna; Valiathan, Manna; Mathur, Deepak

    2012-01-01

    We report here results of a single-cell Raman spectroscopy study of stress effects induced by silver nanoparticles in human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs). A high-sensitivity, high-resolution Raman Tweezers set-up has been used to monitor nanoparticle-induced biochemical changes in optically-trapped single cells. Our micro-Raman spectroscopic study reveals that hMSCs treated with silver nanoparticles undergo oxidative stress at doping levels in excess of 2 µg/ml, with results of a statistical analysis of Raman spectra suggesting that the induced stress becomes more dominant at nanoparticle concentration levels above 3 µg/ml. PMID:22514708

  12. Magneto-optic evaluation of antiferromagnetic α-Fe2O3 nanoparticles coated on a quartz substrate

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Balasubramanian, Srinath; Panmand, Rajendra; Kumar, Ganapathy; Mahajan, Satish M.; Kale, Bharat B.

    2016-03-01

    This paper presents a prima facie study of the magneto-optic response of antiferromagnetic α-Fe2O3 nanoparticles coated on a quartz substrate investigated by MOKE. The concentrations of the iron oxide nanoparticles in the films were varied from 8.6% to 21.5% and showed a linear increase in film thicknesses. As the concentration of the iron oxide nanoparticles were increased, the samples changed from a net-like morphology to a crystalline morphology. Magnetization reversals in the lower concentration samples were asymmetric with the reversals for the ascending and descending branch of the hysteresis loop occurring on the same side. The asymmetry in the magnetization reversal was attributed to the angle between the antiferromagnetic easy axis and the external magnetic field. With increase in concentration, an improvement in the magneto-optic response was observed with the magnetization reversal occurring via coherent rotation for both ascending and descending branches of the hysteresis loop. The changes in the magneto-optic behavior for the samples with higher concentrations is attributed to the strong exchange interactions and changes in the shape of the nanoparticles. Sensitivity studies performed on the samples showed an increased magneto-optic sensitivity to changes in magnetic field for samples of higher concentration. The high sensitivity of these samples could be exploited in magneto-optic sensors. Nanoparticles on a quartz substrate could find applications in bio-medicine due to their bio-compatibility.

  13. One dimensional magneto-optical compression of a cold CaF molecular beam

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chae, Eunmi; Anderegg, Loic; Augenbraun, Benjamin; Ravi, Aakash; Hemmerling, Boerge; Hutzler, Nicholas; Collopy, Alejandra; Ye, Jun; Ketterle, Wolfgang; Doyle, John

    2017-04-01

    We demonstrate one dimensional, transverse magneto-optical compression of a cold beam of calcium monofluoride (CaF). By continually alternating the magnetic field direction and laser polarizations of the magneto-optical force (RF-MOT), a photon scattering rate of 2 π x 0.4 MHz is achieved. A 3D model for this RF-MOT, validated by agreement with data, predicts a 3D RF-MOT capture velocity for CaF of 5 m/s. This work was supported by the ARO, the CUA, and the NSF. BLA is supported by the National Science Foundation Graduate Research Fellowship under NSF Grant No. DGE1144152.

  14. Magneto-optical imaging technique for hostile environments: The ghost imaging approach

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Meda, A.; Caprile, A.; Avella, A.

    2015-06-29

    In this paper, we develop an approach to magneto optical imaging (MOI), applying a ghost imaging (GI) protocol to perform Faraday microscopy. MOI is of the utmost importance for the investigation of magnetic properties of material samples, through Weiss domains shape, dimension and dynamics analysis. Nevertheless, in some extreme conditions such as cryogenic temperatures or high magnetic field applications, there exists a lack of domain images due to the difficulty in creating an efficient imaging system in such environments. Here, we present an innovative MOI technique that separates the imaging optical path from the one illuminating the object. The techniquemore » is based on thermal light GI and exploits correlations between light beams to retrieve the image of magnetic domains. As a proof of principle, the proposed technique is applied to the Faraday magneto-optical observation of the remanence domain structure of an yttrium iron garnet sample.« less

  15. Giant magneto-optical Raman effect in a layered transition metal compound

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Ji, Jianting; Zhang, Anmin; Fan, Jiahe

    2016-02-16

    Here, we report a dramatic change in the intensity of a Raman mode with applied magnetic field, displaying a gigantic magneto-optical effect. Using the nonmagnetic layered material MoS 2 as a prototype system, we demonstrate that the application of a magnetic field perpendicular to the layers produces a dramatic change in intensity for the out-of-plane vibrations of S atoms, but no change for the in-plane breathing mode. The distinct intensity variation between these two modes results from the effect of field-induced broken symmetry on Raman scattering cross-section. A quantitative analysis on the field-dependent integrated Raman intensity provides a unique methodmore » to precisely determine optical mobility. Our analysis is symmetry-based and material-independent, and thus the observations should be general and inspire a new branch of inelastic light scattering and magneto-optical applications.« less

  16. Manufacturing a thin wire electrostatic trap for ultracold polar molecules.

    PubMed

    Kleinert, J; Haimberger, C; Zabawa, P J; Bigelow, N P

    2007-11-01

    We present a detailed description on how to build a thin wire electrostatic trap (TWIST) for ultracold polar molecules. It is the first design of an electrostatic trap that can be superimposed directly onto a magneto-optical trap (MOT). We can thus continuously produce ultracold polar molecules via photoassociation from a two species MOT and instantaneously trap them in the TWIST without the need for complex transfer schemes. Despite the spatial overlap of the TWIST and the MOT, the two traps can be operated and optimized completely independently due to the complementary nature of the utilized trapping mechanisms.

  17. Magneto-Fluorescent Core-Shell Supernanoparticles

    PubMed Central

    Chen, Ou; Riedemann, Lars; Etoc, Fred; Herrmann, Hendrik; Coppey, Mathieu; Barch, Mariya; Farrar, Christian T.; Zhao, Jing; Bruns, Oliver T.; Wei, He; Guo, Peng; Cui, Jian; Jensen, Russ; Chen, Yue; Harris, Daniel K.; Cordero, Jose M.; Wang, Zhongwu; Jasanoff, Alan; Fukumura, Dai; Reimer, Rudolph; Dahan, Maxime; Jain, Rakesh K.; Bawendi, Moungi G.

    2014-01-01

    Magneto-fluorescent particles have been recognized as an emerging class of materials that exhibit great potential in advanced applications. However, synthesizing such magneto-fluorescent nanomaterials that simultaneously exhibit uniform and tunable sizes, high magnetic content loading, maximized fluorophore coverage at the surface, and a versatile surface functionality has proven challenging. Here we report a simple approach for co-assembling magnetic nanoparticles with fluorescent quantum dots to form colloidal magneto-fluorescent supernanoparticles. Importantly, these supernanoparticles exhibit a superstructure consisting of a close packed magnetic nanoparticle “core” which is fully surrounded by a “shell” of fluorescent quantum dots. A thin layer of silica-coating provides high colloidal stability and biocompatiblity and a versatile surface functionality. We demonstrate that after surface pegylation, these silica-coated magneto-fluorescent supernanoparticles can be magnetically manipulated inside living cells while being optically tracked. Moreover, our silica-coated magneto-fluorescent supernanoparticles can also serve as an in vivo multi-photon and magnetic resonance dual-modal imaging probe. PMID:25298155

  18. A minimally invasive optical trapping system to understand cellular interactions at onset of an immune response

    PubMed Central

    Glass, David G.; McAlinden, Niall; Millington, Owain R.

    2017-01-01

    T-cells and antigen presenting cells are an essential part of the adaptive immune response system and how they interact is crucial in how the body effectively fights infection or responds to vaccines. Much of the experimental work studying interaction forces between cells has looked at the average properties of bulk samples of cells or applied microscopy to image the dynamic contact between these cells. In this paper we present a novel optical trapping technique for interrogating the force of this interaction and measuring relative interaction forces at the single-cell level. A triple-spot optical trap is used to directly manipulate the cells of interest without introducing foreign bodies such as beads to the system. The optical trap is used to directly control the initiation of cell-cell contact and, subsequently to terminate the interaction at a defined time point. The laser beam power required to separate immune cell pairs is determined and correlates with the force applied by the optical trap. As proof of concept, the antigen-specific increase in interaction force between a dendritic cell and a specific T-cell is demonstrated. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that this interaction force is completely abrogated when T-cell signalling is blocked. As a result the potential of using optical trapping to interrogate cellular interactions at the single cell level without the need to introduce foreign bodies such as beads is clearly demonstrated. PMID:29220398

  19. Unique system of FE/PD for magneto-optical recording and magnetic switching devices

    DOEpatents

    Liu, Chian Q.; Bader, Samuel D.

    1992-01-01

    A high density magneto-optical information storage medium utilizing the properties of an ultrathin iron film on a palladium substrate. The present invention comprises a magneto-optical medium capable of thermal and magnetic stability and capable of possessing a vertical orientation of the magnetization vector for the magnetic material. Data storage relies on the temperature dependence of the coercivity of the ultrathin film. Data retrieval derives from the Kerr effect which describes the direction of rotation of a plane of polarized light traversing the ultrathin magnetic material as a function of the orientation of the magnetization vector.

  20. Electrodeless-discharge-vapor-lamp-based Faraday anomalous-dispersion optical filter.

    PubMed

    Sun, Qinqing; Zhuang, Wei; Liu, Zhiwen; Chen, Jingbiao

    2011-12-01

    We report an excited-state Faraday anomalous-dispersion optical filter operating on the rubidium 5P(3/2)-5D(5/2) transition (775.9 nm in vacuum) without the use of a pump laser. An electrodeless discharge vapor lamp is employed to replace the Rb vapor cell in a traditional Faraday anomalous-dispersion optical filter system. Atoms can be excited by power rather than a complex frequency-locked pump laser. A proof-of-concept experimental demonstration with a maximum transmission of 1.9% and a filter bandwidth of 650 MHz is presented. © 2011 Optical Society of America

  1. All-optical coherent population trapping with defect spin ensembles in silicon carbide.

    PubMed

    Zwier, Olger V; O'Shea, Danny; Onur, Alexander R; van der Wal, Caspar H

    2015-06-05

    Divacancy defects in silicon carbide have long-lived electronic spin states and sharp optical transitions. Because of the various polytypes of SiC, hundreds of unique divacancies exist, many with spin properties comparable to the nitrogen-vacancy center in diamond. If ensembles of such spins can be all-optically manipulated, they make compelling candidate systems for quantum-enhanced memory, communication, and sensing applications. We report here direct all-optical addressing of basal plane-oriented divacancy spins in 4H-SiC. By means of magneto-spectroscopy, we fully identify the spin triplet structure of both the ground and the excited state, and use this for tuning of transition dipole moments between particular spin levels. We also identify a role for relaxation via intersystem crossing. Building on these results, we demonstrate coherent population trapping -a key effect for quantum state transfer between spins and photons- for divacancy sub-ensembles along particular crystal axes. These results, combined with the flexibility of SiC polytypes and device processing, put SiC at the forefront of quantum information science in the solid state.

  2. Simulation of a 3D MOT-Optical Molasses Hybrid for Potassium-41 Atoms

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Peterson, W. A.; Wrubel, Jonathan

    2017-04-01

    We report a design and numerical model for a 3D magneto-optical trap (MOT)-optical molasses hybrid for potassium-41 atoms. In this arrangement, the usual quadrupole magnetic field is replaced by an octupole field. The octupole field has a central region of very low magnetic field where our simulations show that the atoms experience an optical molasses, resulting in sub-doppler cooling not possible in a quadrupole MOT. The simulations also show that the presence of the magneto-optical trapping force at the edge of the cooling beams provides a restoring force which cycles atoms through the molasses region. We plan to use this hybrid trap to directly load a far off-resonance optical dipole trap. Because the atoms are recycled for multiple passes through the molasses, we expect a higher phase-space density of atoms loaded into the dipole trap. Similar hybrid cooling schemes should be relevant for lithium-6 and lithium-7, which also have poorly resolved D2 hyperfine structure. Research Corporation for Science Advancement, Cottrell College Science Award.

  3. Optical Trapping of Ion Coulomb Crystals

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Schmidt, Julian; Lambrecht, Alexander; Weckesser, Pascal; Debatin, Markus; Karpa, Leon; Schaetz, Tobias

    2018-04-01

    The electronic and motional degrees of freedom of trapped ions can be controlled and coherently coupled on the level of individual quanta. Assembling complex quantum systems ion by ion while keeping this unique level of control remains a challenging task. For many applications, linear chains of ions in conventional traps are ideally suited to address this problem. However, driven motion due to the magnetic or radio-frequency electric trapping fields sometimes limits the performance in one dimension and severely affects the extension to higher-dimensional systems. Here, we report on the trapping of multiple barium ions in a single-beam optical dipole trap without radio-frequency or additional magnetic fields. We study the persistence of order in ensembles of up to six ions within the optical trap, measure their temperature, and conclude that the ions form a linear chain, commonly called a one-dimensional Coulomb crystal. As a proof-of-concept demonstration, we access the collective motion and perform spectrometry of the normal modes in the optical trap. Our system provides a platform that is free of driven motion and combines advantages of optical trapping, such as state-dependent confinement and nanoscale potentials, with the desirable properties of crystals of trapped ions, such as long-range interactions featuring collective motion. Starting with small numbers of ions, it has been proposed that these properties would allow the experimental study of many-body physics and the onset of structural quantum phase transitions between one- and two-dimensional crystals.

  4. Wavelength dependencies of the Kerr rotation and ellipticity for the magneto-optical recording media

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Zhou, Feng Lei; Erwin, J. Kevin; Mansuripur, M.

    1991-01-01

    Here we present wavelength dependence measurements of Co/Pd and Co/Pt superlattice samples with different compositions. We explore the relationship between the composition and the magneto-optical spectra. The induced magnetization in the Pt of Co/Pt or in the Pd of Co/Pd samples plays an important role in the magneto-optical activity, and is discussed for the samples measured. The experimental set-up and the samples used are described. The measurement results of one Co/Pt sample and a series of Co/Pd samples are discussed.

  5. High Optical Access Trap 2.0.

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Maunz, Peter Lukas Wilhelm

    2016-01-26

    The High Optical Access (HOA) trap was designed in collaboration with the Modular Universal Scalable Ion-trap Quantum Computer (MUSIQC) team, funded along with Sandia National Laboratories through IARPA's Multi Qubit Coherent Operations (MQCO) program. The design of version 1 of the HOA trap was completed in September 2012 and initial devices were completed and packaged in February 2013. The second version of the High Optical Access Trap (HOA-2) was completed in September 2014 and is available at IARPA's disposal.

  6. Electromagnetically Induced Absorption (EIA) and a ``Twist'' on Nonlinear Magneto-optical Rotation (NMOR) with Cold Atoms

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kunz, Paul; Meyer, David; Quraishi, Qudsia

    2015-05-01

    Within the class of nonlinear optical effects that exhibit sub-natural linewidth features, electromagnetically induced transparency (EIT) and nonlinear magneto-optical rotation (NMOR) stand out as having made dramatic impacts on various applications including atomic clocks, magnetometry, and single photon storage. A related effect, known as electromagnetically induced absorption (EIA), has received less attention in the literature. Here, we report on the first observation of EIA in cold atoms using the Hanle configuration, where a single laser beam is used to both pump and probe the atoms while sweeping a magnetic field through zero along the beam direction. We find that, associated with the EIA peak, a ``twist'' appears in the corresponding NMOR signal. A similar twist has been previously noted by Budker et al., in the context of warm vapor optical magnetometry, and was ascribed to optical pumping through nearby hyperfine levels. By studying this feature through numerical simulations and cold atom experiments, thus rendering the hyperfine levels well resolved, we enhance the understanding of the optical pumping mechanism behind it, and elucidate its relation to EIA. Finally, we demonstrate a useful application of these studies through a simple and rapid method for nulling background magnetic fields within our atom chip apparatus.

  7. Cavity-enhanced optical trapping of bacteria using a silicon photonic crystal.

    PubMed

    van Leest, Thijs; Caro, Jacob

    2013-11-21

    On-chip optical trapping and manipulation of cells based on the evanescent field of photonic structures is emerging as a promising technique, both in research and for applications in broader context. Relying on mass fabrication techniques, the involved integration of photonics and microfluidics allows control of both the flow of light and water on the scale of interest in single cell microbiology. In this paper, we demonstrate for the first time optical trapping of single bacteria (B. subtilis and E. coli) using photonic crystal cavities for local enhancement of the evanescent field, as opposed to the synthetic particles used so far. Three types of cavities (H0, H1 and L3) are studied, embedded in a planar photonic crystal and optimized for coupling to two collinear photonic crystal waveguides. The photonic crystals are fabricated on a silicon-on-insulator chip, onto which a fluidic channel is created as well. For each of the cavities, when pumped at the resonance wavelength (around 1550 nm), we clearly demonstrate optical trapping of bacteria, in spite of their low index contrast w.r.t. water. By tracking the confined Brownian motion of B. subtilis spores in the traps using recorded microscope observations, we derive strong in-plane trap stiffnesses of about 7.6 pN nm(-1) W(-1). The values found agree very well with calculations based on the Maxwell stress tensor for the force and finite-difference time-domain simulations of the fields for the fabricated cavity geometries. We envision that our lab-on-a-chip with photonic crystal traps opens up new application directions, e.g. immobilization of single bio-objects such as mammalian cells and bacteria under controlled conditions for optical microscopy studies.

  8. Non-contact fiber-optical trapping of motile bacteria: dynamics observation and energy estimation

    PubMed Central

    Xin, Hongbao; Liu, Qingyuan; Li, Baojun

    2014-01-01

    The dynamics and energy conversion of bacteria are strongly associated with bacterial activities, such as survival, spreading of bacterial diseases and their pathogenesis. Although different discoveries have been reported on trapped bacteria (i.e. immobilized bacteria), the investigation on the dynamics and energy conversion of motile bacteria in the process of trapping is highly desirable. Here, we report a non-contact optical trapping of motile bacteria using a modified tapered optical fiber. Using Escherichia coli as an example, both single and multiple motile bacteria have been trapped and manipulated in a non-contact manner. Bacterial dynamics has been observed and bacterial energy has been estimated in the trapping process. This non-contact optical trapping provides a new opportunity for better understanding the bacterial dynamics and energy conversion at the single cell level. PMID:25300713

  9. Effect of atomic noise on optical squeezing via polarization self-rotation in a thermal vapor cell

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Hsu, M. T. L.; Hetet, G.; Peng, A.

    2006-02-15

    The traversal of an elliptically polarized optical field through a thermal vapor cell can give rise to a rotation of its polarization axis. This process, known as polarization self-rotation (PSR), has been suggested as a mechanism for producing squeezed light at atomic transition wavelengths. We show results of the characterization of PSR in isotopically enhanced rubidium-87 cells, performed in two independent laboratories. We observed that, contrary to earlier work, the presence of atomic noise in the thermal vapor overwhelms the observation of squeezing. We present a theory that contains atomic noise terms and show that a null result in squeezingmore » is consistent with this theory.« less

  10. Optical Trap Loading of Dielectric Microparticles In Air.

    PubMed

    Park, Haesung; LeBrun, Thomas W

    2017-02-05

    We demonstrate a method to trap a selected dielectric microparticle in air using radiation pressure from a single-beam gradient optical trap. Randomly scattered dielectric microparticles adhered to a glass substrate are momentarily detached using ultrasonic vibrations generated by a piezoelectric transducer (PZT). Then, the optical beam focused on a selected particle lifts it up to the optical trap while the vibrationally excited microparticles fall back to the substrate. A particle may be trapped at the nominal focus of the trapping beam or at a position above the focus (referred to here as the levitation position) where gravity provides the restoring force. After the measurement, the trapped particle can be placed at a desired position on the substrate in a controlled manner. In this protocol, an experimental procedure for selective optical trap loading in air is outlined. First, the experimental setup is briefly introduced. Second, the design and fabrication of a PZT holder and a sample enclosure are illustrated in detail. The optical trap loading of a selected microparticle is then demonstrated with step-by-step instructions including sample preparation, launching into the trap, and use of electrostatic force to excite particle motion in the trap and measure charge. Finally, we present recorded particle trajectories of Brownian and ballistic motions of a trapped microparticle in air. These trajectories can be used to measure stiffness or to verify optical alignment through time domain and frequency domain analysis. Selective trap loading enables optical tweezers to track a particle and its changes over repeated trap loadings in a reversible manner, thereby enabling studies of particle-surface interaction.

  11. Spectroscopy, Manipulation and Trapping of Neutral Atoms, Molecules, and Other Particles Using Optical Nanofibers: A Review

    PubMed Central

    Morrissey, Michael J.; Deasy, Kieran; Frawley, Mary; Kumar, Ravi; Prel, Eugen; Russell, Laura; Truong, Viet Giang; Chormaic, Síle Nic

    2013-01-01

    The use of tapered optical fibers, i.e., optical nanofibers, for spectroscopy and the detection of small numbers of particles, such as neutral atoms or molecules, has been gaining interest in recent years. In this review, we briefly introduce the optical nanofiber, its fabrication, and optical mode propagation within. We discuss recent progress on the integration of optical nanofibers into laser-cooled atom and vapor systems, paying particular attention to spectroscopy, cold atom cloud characterization, and optical trapping schemes. Next, a natural extension of this work to molecules is introduced. Finally, we consider several alternatives to optical nanofibers that display some advantages for specific applications. PMID:23945738

  12. Curie temperature, exchange integrals, and magneto-optical properties in off-stoichiometric bismuth iron garnet epitaxial films

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Vertruyen, B.; Cloots, R.; Abell, J. S.; Jackson, T. J.; da Silva, R. C.; Popova, E.; Keller, N.

    2008-09-01

    We have studied the influence of the stoichiometry on the structural, magnetic, and magneto-optical properties of bismuth iron garnet (Bi3Fe5O12) thin films grown by pulsed laser deposition. Films with different stoichiometries have been obtained by varying the Bi/Fe ratio of the target and the oxygen pressure during deposition. Stoichiometry variations influence the Curie temperature TC by tuning the (Fe)-O-[Fe] geometry: TC increases when the lattice parameter decreases, contrary to what happens in the case of stoichiometric rare-earth iron garnets. The thermal variation of the magnetization, the Faraday rotation, and the Faraday ellipticity have been analyzed in the frame of the Néel two-sublattice magnetization model giving energies of -48K (4.1 meV), -29K (2.5 meV), and 84 K (7.3 meV) for the three magnetic exchange integrals jaa , jdd , and jad , respectively. Magneto-optical spectroscopy linked to compositional analysis by Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy shows that Bi and/or Fe deficiencies also affect the spectral variation (between 1.77 and 3.1 eV). Our results suggest that bismuth deficiency has an effect on the magneto-optical response of the tetrahedral Fe sublattice, whereas small iron deficiencies affect predominantly the magneto-optical response of the octahedral sublattice.

  13. Lensless magneto-optic speed sensor

    DOEpatents

    Veeser, L.R.; Forman, P.R.; Rodriguez, P.J.

    1998-02-17

    Lensless magneto-optic speed sensor is disclosed. The construction of a viable Faraday sensor has been achieved. Multimode fiber bundles are used to collect the light. If coupled directly into a 100 or 200 {micro}m core fiber, light from a light emitting diode (LED) is sufficient to operate the sensor. In addition, LEDs ensure that no birefringence effects in the input fiber are possible, as the output from such light sources have random polarization. No lens is required since the large diameter optical fibers and thin crystals of materials having high Verdet constants (such as iron garnets) employed permit the collection of a substantial quantity of light. No coupler is required. The maximum amount of light which could reach a detector using a coupler is 25%, while the measured throughput of the fiber-optic bundle without a coupler is about 42%. All of the elements employed in the present sensor are planar, and no particular orientation of these elements is required. The present sensor operates over a wide range of distances from magnetic field sources, and observed signals are large. When a tone wheel is utilized, the signals are independent of wheel speed, and the modulation is observed to be about 75%. No sensitivity to bends in the input or output optical fiber leads was observed. Reliable operation was achieved down to zero frequency, or no wheel rotation. 5 figs.

  14. Lensless Magneto-optic speed sensor

    DOEpatents

    Veeser, Lynn R.; Forman, Peter R.; Rodriguez, Patrick J.

    1998-01-01

    Lensless magneto-optic speed sensor. The construction of a viable Faraday sensor has been achieved. Multimode fiber bundles are used to collect the light. If coupled directly into a 100 or 200 .mu.m core fiber, light from a light emitting diode (LED) is sufficient to operate the sensor. In addition, LEDs ensure that no birefringence effects in the input fiber are possible, as the output from such light sources have random polarization. No lens is required since the large diameter optical fibers and thin crystals of materials having high Verdet constants (such as iron garnets) employed permit the collection of a substantial quantity of light. No coupler is required. The maximum amount of light which could reach a detector using a coupler is 25%, while the measured throughput of the fiber-optic bundle without a coupler is about 42%. All of the elements employed in the present sensor are planar, and no particular orientation of these elements is required. The present sensor operates over a wide range of distances from magnetic field sources, and observed signals are large. When a tone wheel is utilized, the signals are independent of wheel speed, and the modulation is observed to be about 75%. No sensitivity to bends in the input or output optical fiber leads was observed. Reliable operation was achieved down to zero frequency, or no wheel rotation.

  15. Nano- and micro-scale Bi-substituted iron garnet films for photonics and magneto-optic eddy current defectoscopy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Berzhansky, V. N.; Karavainikov, A. V.; Mikhailova, T. V.; Prokopov, A. R.; Shaposhnikov, A. N.; Shumilov, A. G.; Lugovskoy, N. V.; Semuk, E. Yu.; Kharchenko, M. F.; Lukienko, I. M.; Kharchenko, Yu. M.; Belotelov, V. I.

    2017-10-01

    Synthesis technology of nano-scale Bi-substituted iron garnets films with high magneto-optic activity for photonics and plasmonics applications were proposed. The micro-scale single-crystal garnet films with different types of magnetic anisotropy as a magneto-optic sensors were synthesized. It was shown that easy-axis anisotropy films demonstrated the best results for visualization of redistribution eddy current magnetic field near defects.

  16. Optical trapping and optical force positioning of two-dimensional materials.

    PubMed

    Donato, M G; Messina, E; Foti, A; Smart, T J; Jones, P H; Iatì, M A; Saija, R; Gucciardi, P G; Maragò, O M

    2018-01-18

    In recent years, considerable effort has been devoted to the synthesis and characterization of two-dimensional materials. Liquid phase exfoliation (LPE) represents a simple, large-scale method to exfoliate layered materials down to mono- and few-layer flakes. In this context, the contactless trapping, characterization, and manipulation of individual nanosheets hold perspectives for increased accuracy in flake metrology and the assembly of novel functional materials. Here, we use optical forces for high-resolution structural characterization and precise mechanical positioning of nanosheets of hexagonal boron nitride, molybdenum disulfide, and tungsten disulfide obtained by LPE. Weakly optically absorbing nanosheets of boron nitride are trapped in optical tweezers. The analysis of the thermal fluctuations allows a direct measurement of optical forces and the mean flake size in a liquid environment. Measured optical trapping constants are compared with T-matrix light scattering calculations to show a quadratic size scaling for small size, as expected for a bidimensional system. In contrast, strongly absorbing nanosheets of molybdenum disulfide and tungsten disulfide are not stably trapped due to the dominance of radiation pressure over the optical trapping force. Thus, optical forces are used to pattern a substrate by selectively depositing nanosheets in short times (minutes) and without any preparation of the surface. This study will be useful for improving ink-jet printing and for a better engineering of optoelectronic devices based on two-dimensional materials.

  17. Ultraviolet laser spectroscopy of neutral mercury in a one-dimensional optical lattice

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Mejri, S.; McFerran, J. J.; Yi, L.

    2011-09-15

    We present details on the ultraviolet lattice spectroscopy of the (6s{sup 2}) {sup 1}S{sub 0}{r_reversible} (6s6p) {sup 3}P{sub 0} transition in neutral mercury, specifically {sup 199}Hg. Mercury atoms are loaded into a one-dimensional vertically aligned optical lattice from a magneto-optical trap with an rms temperature of {approx}60 {mu}K. We describe aspects of the magneto-optical trapping, the lattice cavity design, and the techniques employed to trap and detect mercury in an optical lattice. The clock-line frequency dependence on lattice depth is measured at a range of lattice wavelengths. We confirm the magic wavelength to be 362.51(0.16) nm. Further observations to thosemore » reported by Yi et al.[Phys. Rev. Lett. 106, 073005 (2011)] are presented regarding the laser excitation of a Wannier-Stark ladder of states.« less

  18. Optical coatings for improved contrast in longitudinal magneto-optic Kerr effect measurements

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cantwell, P. R.; Gibson, U. J.; Allwood, D. A.; Macleod, H. A. M.

    2006-11-01

    We have studied the increases in the longitudinal magneto-optic Kerr effect signal contrast that can be achieved by the application of optical overlayers on magnetic films. For simple coatings, a factor of ˜3 improvement in signal contrast is possible. Matching the optical impedance of the magnetic material improves the raw Kerr signal and also reduces the sample reflectivity, yielding a large Kerr angle. The contrast can be optimized by increasing the rotated Kerr reflectivity component while maintaining enough of the base reflectivity Fresnel component to produce a strong signal. Calculations and experimental results are presented for single layer ZrO2 dielectric coatings on Ni along with calculations for a three-layer Au -ZrO2-Ni structure. Incidence angle effects are also presented.

  19. Thermomagnetic recording and magneto-optic playback system having constant intensity laser beam control

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Lewicki, G. W.; Guisinger, J. E. (Inventor)

    1973-01-01

    A system is developed for maintaining the intensity of a laser beam at a constant level in a thermomagnetic recording and magneto-optic playback system in which an isotropic film is heated along a continuous path by the laser beam for recording. As each successive area of the path is heated locally to the vicinity of its Curie point in the presence of a controlled magnetic field, a magneto-optic density is produced proportional to the amplitude of the controlled magnetic field. To play back the recorded signal, the intensity of the laser beam is reduced and a Faraday or Kerr effect analyzer is used, with a photodetector, as a transducer for producing an output signal.

  20. Linear and nonlinear magneto-optical properties of monolayer MoS2

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nguyen, Chuong V.; Hieu, Nguyen N.; Muoi, Do; Duque, Carlos A.; Feddi, Elmustapha; Nguyen, Hieu V.; Phuong, Le T. T.; Hoi, Bui D.; Phuc, Huynh V.

    2018-01-01

    In this work, using the compact density matrix approach, we study the linear and nonlinear magneto-optical properties of monolayer molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) via an investigation of the absorption coefficients (MOACs) and refractive index changes (RICs). The results are presented as functions of photon energy and external magnetic field. Our results show that the MOACs and the RICs appear as a series of peaks in the inter-band transitions between Landau levels, while the intra-band transitions result in only one peak. Because of the strong spin-orbit coupling, the peaks caused by the spin-up and -down states are different. With the increase in the magnetic field, both MOACs and RICs give a blue-shift and reduce in their amplitudes. These results suggest a potential application of monolayer MoS2 in the optoelectronic technology, magneto-optical, valleytronic, and spintronic devices.

  1. Magneto-optical Phase Transition in a Nanostructured Co/Pd Thin Film

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nwokoye, Chidubem; Bennett, Lawrence; Della Torre, Edward; Siddique, Abid; Zhang, Ming; Wagner, Michael; Narducci, Frank

    Interest in the study of magnetism in nanostructures at low temperatures is growing. We report work that extends the magnetics experiments in that studied Bose-Einstein Condensation (BEC) of magnons in confined nanostructures. We report experimental investigation of the magneto-optical properties, influenced by photon-magnon interactions, of a Co/Pd thin film below and above the magnon BEC temperature. Comparison of results from SQUID and MOKE experiments revealed a phase transition temperature in both magnetic and magneto-optical properties of the material that is attributed to the magnon BEC. Recent research in magnonics has provided a realization scheme for developing magnon BEC qubit gates for a quantum computing processor. Future research work will explore this technology and find ways to apply quantum computing to address some computational challenges in communication systems. We recognize financial support from the Naval Air Systems Command Section 219 grant.

  2. Assembly of microparticles by optical trapping with a photonic crystal nanocavity

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Renaut, C.; Dellinger, J.; Cluzel, B.; Honegger, T.; Peyrade, D.; Picard, E.; de Fornel, F.; Hadji, E.

    2012-03-01

    In this work, we report the auto-assembly experiments of micrometer sized particles by optical trapping in the evanescent field of a photonic crystal nanocavity. The nanocavity is inserted inside an optofluidic cell designed to enable the real time control of the nanoresonator transmittance as well as the real time visualization of the particles motion in the vicinity of the nanocavity. It is demonstrated that the optical trap above the cavity enables the assembly of multiple particles in respect of different stable conformations.

  3. Optical trapping of nanoparticles by ultrashort laser pulses.

    PubMed

    Usman, Anwar; Chiang, Wei-Yi; Masuhara, Hiroshi

    2013-01-01

    Optical trapping with continuous-wave lasers has been a fascinating field in the optical manipulation. It has become a powerful tool for manipulating micrometer-sized objects, and has been widely applied in physics, chemistry, biology, material, and colloidal science. Replacing the continuous-wave- with pulsed-mode laser in optical trapping has already revealed some novel phenomena, including the stable trap, modifiable trapping positions, and controllable directional optical ejections of particles in nanometer scales. Due to two distinctive features; impulsive peak powers and relaxation time between consecutive pulses, the optical trapping with the laser pulses has been demonstrated to have some advantages over conventional continuous-wave lasers, particularly when the particles are within Rayleigh approximation. This would open unprecedented opportunities in both fundamental science and application. This Review summarizes recent advances in the optical trapping with laser pulses and discusses the electromagnetic formulations and physical interpretations of the new phenomena. Its aim is rather to show how beautiful and promising this field will be, and to encourage the in-depth study of this field.

  4. Instrumentation of the variable-angle magneto-optic ellipsometer and its application to M-O media and other non-magnetic films

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Zhou, Andy F.; Erwin, J. Kevin; Mansuripur, M.

    1992-01-01

    A new and comprehensive dielectric tensor characterization instrument is presented for characterization of magneto-optical recording media and non-magnetic thin films. Random and systematic errors of the system are studied. A series of TbFe, TbFeCo, and Co/Pt samples with different composition and thicknesses are characterized for their optical and magneto-optical properties. The optical properties of several non-magnetic films are also measured.

  5. Effects of annealing and conformal alumina passivation on anisotropy and hysteresis of magneto-optical properties of cobalt slanted columnar thin films

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Briley, Chad; Mock, Alyssa; Korlacki, Rafał; Hofmann, Tino; Schubert, Eva; Schubert, Mathias

    2017-11-01

    We present magneto-optical dielectric tensor data of cobalt and cobalt oxide slanted columnar thin films obtained by vector magneto-optical generalized ellipsometry. Room-temperature hysteresis magnetization measurements were performed in longitudinal and polar Kerr geometries on samples prior to and after a heat treatment process with and without a conformal Al2O3 passivation coating. The samples have been characterized by generalized ellipsometry, scanning electron microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy in conjuncture with density functional theory. We observe strongly anisotropic hysteresis behaviors, which depend on the nanocolumn and magnetizing field orientations. We find that deposited cobalt films that have been exposed to heat treatment and subsequent atmospheric oxidation into Co3O4, when not conformally passivated, reveal no measurable magneto-optical properties while cobalt films with passivation coatings retain highly anisotropic magneto-optical properties.

  6. Optical trapping performance of dielectric-metallic patchy particles

    PubMed Central

    Lawson, Joseph L.; Jenness, Nathan J.; Clark, Robert L.

    2015-01-01

    We demonstrate a series of simulation experiments examining the optical trapping behavior of composite micro-particles consisting of a small metallic patch on a spherical dielectric bead. A full parameter space of patch shapes, based on current state of the art manufacturing techniques, and optical properties of the metallic film stack is examined. Stable trapping locations and optical trap stiffness of these particles are determined based on the particle design and potential particle design optimizations are discussed. A final test is performed examining the ability to incorporate these composite particles with standard optical trap metrology technologies. PMID:26832054

  7. Induced dual EIT and EIA resonances with optical trapping phenomenon in near/far fields in the N-type four-level system

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Osman, Kariman I.; Joshi, Amitabh

    2017-01-01

    The optical trapping phenomenon is investigated in the probe absorptive susceptibility spectra, during the interaction of four-level N-type atomic system with three transverse Gaussian fields, in a Doppler broadened medium. The system was studied under different temperature settings of 87Rb atomic vapor as well as different non-radiative decay rate. The system exhibits a combination of dual electromagnetically induced transparency with electromagnetically induced absorption (EIA) or transparency (EIT) resonances simultaneously in near/far field. Also, the optical trapping phenomenon is considerably affected by the non-radiative decay rate.

  8. Simultaneous trapping of rubidium-85 and rubidium-87 in a far off resonant trap

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gorges, Anthony R.

    The experiments described in this thesis were focused on the physics of simultaneous trapping of 85Rb and 87 Rb into a Far Off Resonant Trap (FORT), with a view towards the implementation of a nonevaporative cooling scheme. Atoms were first trapped in a Magneto Optical Trap (MOT) and from there loaded into the FORT. We investigated the effects of loading the FORT from a MOT vs. an optical molasses; observing that the molasses significantly improved the trapped atom number. The ultimate number of atoms trapped is determined by a balance between efficient laser cooling into the FORT and light-assisted collisional losses from the FORT. We have studied and measured the loss rates associated with light-assisted collisions for our FORT, measuring both heteronuclear and homonuclear collisions. It was discovered that induced long range dipole-dipole interactions between 85Rb and 87Rb have a significant impact on FORT loading. This interaction interferes with the loading into the trap and thus limits the number of atoms which can be trapped in the FORT under simultaneous load conditions. Despite this limitation, all required experimental parameters for our future measurements have been met. In addition to these FORT studies, we have found a technique which can successfully mitigate the effects of reabsorption in optically thick clouds, which is a limitation to the ultimate temperature an atom cloud will reach during light-based cooling. Planned future measurements for this project include the creation of a variable aspect ratio FORT; along with investigating collision assisted Zeeman cooling.

  9. Molecular dynamics in an optical trap of glutamate receptors labeled with quantum-dots on living neurons

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kishimoto, Tatsunori; Maezawa, Yasuyo; Kudoh, Suguru N.; Taguchi, Takahisa; Hosokawa, Chie

    2017-04-01

    Molecular dynamics of glutamate receptor, which is major neurotransmitter receptor at excitatory synapse located on neuron, is essential for synaptic plasticity in the complex neuronal networks. Here we studied molecular dynamics in an optical trap of AMPA-type glutamate receptor (AMPAR) labeled with quantum-dot (QD) on living neuronal cells with fluorescence imaging and fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS). When a 1064-nm laser beam for optical trapping was focused on QD-AMPARs located on neuronal cells, the fluorescence intensity of QD-AMPARs gradually increased at the focal spot. Using single-particle tracking of QD-AMPARs on neurons, the average diffusion coefficient decreased in an optical trap. Moreover, the decay time obtained from FCS analysis increased with the laser power and the initial assembling state of AMPARs depended on culturing day, suggesting that the motion of QD-AMPAR was constrained in an optical trap.

  10. Optical trapping reveals propulsion forces, power generation and motility efficiency of the unicellular parasites Trypanosoma brucei brucei

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Stellamanns, Eric; Uppaluri, Sravanti; Hochstetter, Axel; Heddergott, Niko; Engstler, Markus; Pfohl, Thomas

    2014-10-01

    Unicellular parasites have developed sophisticated swimming mechanisms to survive in a wide range of environments. Cell motility of African trypanosomes, parasites responsible for fatal illness in humans and animals, is crucial both in the insect vector and the mammalian host. Using millisecond-scale imaging in a microfluidics platform along with a custom made optical trap, we are able to confine single cells to study trypanosome motility. From the trapping characteristics of the cells, we determine the propulsion force generated by cells with a single flagellum as well as of dividing trypanosomes with two fully developed flagella. Estimates of the dissipative energy and the power generation of single cells obtained from the motility patterns of the trypanosomes within the optical trap indicate that specific motility characteristics, in addition to locomotion, may be required for antibody clearance. Introducing a steerable second optical trap we could further measure the force, which is generated at the flagellar tip. Differences in the cellular structure of the trypanosomes are correlated with the trapping and motility characteristics and in consequence with their propulsion force, dissipative energy and power generation.

  11. Optical trapping reveals propulsion forces, power generation and motility efficiency of the unicellular parasites Trypanosoma brucei brucei.

    PubMed

    Stellamanns, Eric; Uppaluri, Sravanti; Hochstetter, Axel; Heddergott, Niko; Engstler, Markus; Pfohl, Thomas

    2014-10-01

    Unicellular parasites have developed sophisticated swimming mechanisms to survive in a wide range of environments. Cell motility of African trypanosomes, parasites responsible for fatal illness in humans and animals, is crucial both in the insect vector and the mammalian host. Using millisecond-scale imaging in a microfluidics platform along with a custom made optical trap, we are able to confine single cells to study trypanosome motility. From the trapping characteristics of the cells, we determine the propulsion force generated by cells with a single flagellum as well as of dividing trypanosomes with two fully developed flagella. Estimates of the dissipative energy and the power generation of single cells obtained from the motility patterns of the trypanosomes within the optical trap indicate that specific motility characteristics, in addition to locomotion, may be required for antibody clearance. Introducing a steerable second optical trap we could further measure the force, which is generated at the flagellar tip. Differences in the cellular structure of the trypanosomes are correlated with the trapping and motility characteristics and in consequence with their propulsion force, dissipative energy and power generation.

  12. Effective-mass model and magneto-optical properties in hybrid perovskites.

    PubMed

    Yu, Z G

    2016-06-24

    Hybrid inorganic-organic perovskites have proven to be a revolutionary material for low-cost photovoltaic applications. They also exhibit many other interesting properties, including giant Rashba splitting, large-radius Wannier excitons, and novel magneto-optical effects. Understanding these properties as well as the detailed mechanism of photovoltaics requires a reliable and accessible electronic structure, on which models of transport, excitonic, and magneto-optical properties can be efficiently developed. Here we construct an effective-mass model for the hybrid perovskites based on the group theory, experiment, and first-principles calculations. Using this model, we relate the Rashba splitting with the inversion-asymmetry parameter in the tetragonal perovskites, evaluate anisotropic g-factors for both conduction and valence bands, and elucidate the magnetic-field effect on photoluminescence and its dependence on the intensity of photoexcitation. The diamagnetic effect of exciton is calculated for an arbitrarily strong magnetic field. The pronounced excitonic peak emerged at intermediate magnetic fields in cyclotron resonance is assigned to the 3D±2 states, whose splitting can be used to estimate the difference in the effective masses of electron and hole.

  13. Effective-mass model and magneto-optical properties in hybrid perovskites

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yu, Z. G.

    2016-06-01

    Hybrid inorganic-organic perovskites have proven to be a revolutionary material for low-cost photovoltaic applications. They also exhibit many other interesting properties, including giant Rashba splitting, large-radius Wannier excitons, and novel magneto-optical effects. Understanding these properties as well as the detailed mechanism of photovoltaics requires a reliable and accessible electronic structure, on which models of transport, excitonic, and magneto-optical properties can be efficiently developed. Here we construct an effective-mass model for the hybrid perovskites based on the group theory, experiment, and first-principles calculations. Using this model, we relate the Rashba splitting with the inversion-asymmetry parameter in the tetragonal perovskites, evaluate anisotropic g-factors for both conduction and valence bands, and elucidate the magnetic-field effect on photoluminescence and its dependence on the intensity of photoexcitation. The diamagnetic effect of exciton is calculated for an arbitrarily strong magnetic field. The pronounced excitonic peak emerged at intermediate magnetic fields in cyclotron resonance is assigned to the 3D±2 states, whose splitting can be used to estimate the difference in the effective masses of electron and hole.

  14. Applications of the magneto-optical filter to stellar pulsation measurements

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Rhodes, E. J., Jr.; Cacciani, A.; Tomczyk, S.

    1984-01-01

    A proposed method of employing the Cacciani magneto-optical filter (MOF) for stellar seismology studies is described. The method relies on the fact that the separation of the filter bandpasses in the MOF can be changed by varying the level of input power to the filter cells. With the use of a simple servosystem the bandpass of a MOF can be tuned to compensate for the changes in the radial velocity of a star introduced by the orbital motion of the Earth. Such a tuned filter can then be used to record intensity fluctuations through the MOF bandpass over an extended period of time for each given star. Also, the use of a two cell version of the MOF makes it possible to alternately chop between the bandpass located in the stellar line wing and a second bandpass located in the stellar continuum. Rapid interchange between the two channels makes it possible for atmospheric-introduced noise to be removed from the time series.

  15. Applications of the magneto-optical filter to stellar pulsation measurements

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Rhodes, Edward J., Jr.; Cacciani, Alessandro; Tomczyk, Steven

    1986-01-01

    A proposed method of employing the Cacciani magneto-optical filter (MOF) for stellar seismology studies is described. The method relies on the fact that the separation of the filter bandpasses in the MOF can be changed by varying the level of input power to the filter cells. With the use of a simple servosystem the bandpass of a MOF can be tuned to compensate for the changes in the radial velocity of a star introduced by the orbital motion of the earth. Such a tuned filter can then be used to record intensity fluctuations through the MOF bandpass over an extended period of time for each given star. Also, the use of a two cell version of the MOF makes it possible to alternately chop between the bandpass located in the stellar line wing and a second bandpass located in the stellar continuum. Rapid interchange between the two channels makes it possible for atmospheric-introduced noise to be removed from the time series.

  16. Magneto-optical imaging of thin magnetic films using spins in diamond

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Simpson, David A.; Tetienne, Jean-Philippe; McCoey, Julia M.; Ganesan, Kumaravelu; Hall, Liam T.; Petrou, Steven; Scholten, Robert E.; Hollenberg, Lloyd C. L.

    2016-03-01

    Imaging the fields of magnetic materials provides crucial insight into the physical and chemical processes surrounding magnetism, and has been a key ingredient in the spectacular development of magnetic data storage. Existing approaches using the magneto-optic Kerr effect, x-ray and electron microscopy have limitations that constrain further development, and there is increasing demand for imaging and characterisation of magnetic phenomena in real time with high spatial resolution. Here we show how the magneto-optical response of an array of negatively-charged nitrogen-vacancy spins in diamond can be used to image and map the sub-micron stray magnetic field patterns from thin ferromagnetic films. Using optically detected magnetic resonance, we demonstrate wide-field magnetic imaging over 100 × 100 μm2 with sub-micron spatial resolution at video frame rates, under ambient conditions. We demonstrate an all-optical spin relaxation contrast imaging approach which can image magnetic structures in the absence of an applied microwave field. Straightforward extensions promise imaging with sub-μT sensitivity and sub-optical spatial and millisecond temporal resolution. This work establishes practical diamond-based wide-field microscopy for rapid high-sensitivity characterisation and imaging of magnetic samples, with the capability for investigating magnetic phenomena such as domain wall and skyrmion dynamics and the spin Hall effect in metals.

  17. Integrated optical dipole trap for cold neutral atoms with an optical waveguide coupler

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lee, J.; Park, D. H.; Mittal, S.; Dagenais, M.; Rolston, S. L.

    2013-04-01

    An integrated optical dipole trap uses two-color (red and blue-detuned) traveling evanescent wave fields for trapping cold neutral atoms. To achieve longitudinal confinement, we propose using an integrated optical waveguide coupler, which provides a potential gradient along the beam propagation direction sufficient to confine atoms. This integrated optical dipole trap can support an atomic ensemble with a large optical depth due to its small mode area. Its quasi-TE0 waveguide mode has an advantage over the HE11 mode of a nanofiber, with little inhomogeneous Zeeman broadening at the trapping region. The longitudinal confinement eliminates the need for a one dimensional optical lattice, reducing collisional blockaded atomic loading, potentially producing larger ensembles. The waveguide trap allows for scalability and integrability with nano-fabrication technology. We analyze the potential performance of such integrated atom traps.

  18. Magneto-optical response of InAs lens-shaped self-assembled quantum dots

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Klimeck, G.; Oyafuso, F.; Lee, S.; Allmen, P. von

    2003-01-01

    In this work, we demonstrate a realistic modeling of the electronic structure for InAs self-assembled quantum dots and investigate the magneto-optical response, i.e., Zeeman splitting and transition rates between electron and hole levels.

  19. Integrated Optical Dipole Trap for Cold Neutral Atoms with an Optical Waveguide Coupler

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lee, J.; Park, D. H.; Mittal, S.; Meng, Y.; Dagenais, M.; Rolston, S. L.

    2013-05-01

    Using an optical waveguide, an integrated optical dipole trap uses two-color (red and blue-detuned) traveling evanescent wave fields for trapping cold neutral atoms. To achieve longitudinal confinement, we propose using an integrated optical waveguide coupler, which provides a potential gradient along the beam propagation direction sufficient to confine atoms. This integrated optical dipole trap can support an atomic ensemble with a large optical depth due to its small mode area. Its quasi-TE0 waveguide mode has an advantage over the HE11 mode of a nanofiber, with little inhomogeneous Zeeman broadening at the trapping region. The longitudinal confinement eliminates the need for a 1D optical lattice, reducing collisional blockaded atomic loading, potentially producing larger ensembles. The waveguide trap allows for scalability and integrability with nano-fabrication technology. We analyze the potential performance of such integrated atom traps and present current research progress towards a fiber-coupled silicon nitride optical waveguide integrable with atom chips. Work is supported by the ARO Atomtronics MURI. Work is supported by the ARO Atomtronics MURI.

  20. Soft-x-ray magneto-optical Kerr effect and element-specific hysteresis measurement

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Kortright, J.B.; Rice, M.

    1997-04-01

    Interest in the utilization of x-ray magneto-optical properties to provide element-specific magnetic information, combined with recent development of tunable linear polarizers for spectroscopic polarization measurement, have led the authors to the study of magneto-optical rotation (MOR) near core levels of magnetic atoms in magnetic multilayer and alloy films. Their initial observation of Faraday rotation (in transmission) demonstrated that for Fe MOR is easily measured and is larger at its L{sub 3} resonance than in the near-visible spectral regions. This work also demonstrated that the spectroscopic behavior of the MOR signal in transmission, resulting from the differential reaction of left- andmore » right-circular components of a linearly polarized beam, is related to the magnetic circular dichroism (MCD), or differential absorption, as expected by a Kramers-Kronig transformation. Thus MCD measurements using circular polarization and MOR measurements using linear polarization can provide complementary, and in some cases equivalent, information. On beamline 6.3.2 the authors have begun to investigate soft x-ray MOR in the reflection geometry, the x-ray magneto-optic Kerr effect (XMOKE). Early measurements have demonstrated the ability to measure element-specific hysteresis loops and large rotations compared to analogous near-visible measurements. The authors are investigating the spectral dependence of the XMOKE signal, and have initiated systematic materials studies of sputter-deposited films of Fe, Fe{sub x}Cr{sub 1{minus}x} alloys, and Fe/Cr multilayers.« less

  1. Linear and nonlinear magneto-optical absorption coefficients and refractive index changes in graphene

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Nguyen, Chuong V.; Hieu, Nguyen N.; Duque, Carlos A.; Poklonski, Nikolai A.; Ilyasov, Victor V.; Hieu, Nguyen V.; Dinh, Le; Quang, Quach K.; Tung, Luong V.; Phuc, Huynh V.

    2017-07-01

    In this work, we study the magneto-optical absorption coefficients (MOACs) and refractive index changes (RICs) in monolayer graphene under a perpendicular magnetic field using the compact density matrix approach. The results are presented as functions of photon energy and external magnetic field. Our results show that there are three groups of the possible transitions: the intra-band, the mixed, and the inter-band transitions; in which the MOACs and the RICs appear as a series of peaks in both intra-band and inter-band transitions between the Landau levels. With an increase magnetic field, the resonant peaks give a blue-shift and reduce in their amplitudes. These results suggest a potential application of monolayer graphene in nanoscale electronic and magneto-optical devices.

  2. Studies of lipid vesicle mechanics using an optical fiber dual-beam trap

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Pinon, Tessa M.; Hirst, Linda S.; Sharping, Jay E.

    2011-03-01

    Fiber-based optical traps can be used for manipulating micron-sized dielectric particles such as microspheres and biological cells. Here we study the mechanics of giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) which are held and stretched by light forces in a fiber-based dual-beam optical trap. Our GUVs are suspended in a buffer solution and encapsulate various concentrations and molecular weights of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) polymer yielding a range of refractive index contrasts and trapping conditions. We find that we can trap GUVs in solution with index contrasts of less than 0.01. We explore the mechanical response of the GUV membrane to a range of forces which are proportional to laser power and refractive index contrast. Our trapping system is a compact and inexpensive platform and trapping is viewed in real time under a microscope. We hypothesize that forces within the high-tension regime will induce a linear response in vesicle surface area. This project sets the stage for membrane mechanics and lipid phase change studies. Grant: NSF award #DMR 0852791, ``CAREER: Self-Assembly of Polyunsaturated Lipids and Cholesterol in the Cell Membrane.''

  3. Rich magneto-absorption spectra of AAB-stacked trilayer graphene.

    PubMed

    Do, Thi-Nga; Shih, Po-Hsin; Chang, Cheng-Peng; Lin, Chiun-Yan; Lin, Ming-Fa

    2016-06-29

    A generalized tight-binding model is developed to investigate the feature-rich magneto-optical properties of AAB-stacked trilayer graphene. Three intragroup and six intergroup inter-Landau-level (inter-LL) optical excitations largely enrich magneto-absorption peaks. In general, the former are much higher than the latter, depending on the phases and amplitudes of LL wavefunctions. The absorption spectra exhibit single- or twin-peak structures which are determined by quantum modes, LL energy spectra and Fermion distribution. The splitting LLs, with different localization centers (2/6 and 4/6 positions in a unit cell), can generate very distinct absorption spectra. There exist extra single peaks because of LL anti-crossings. AAB, AAA, ABA, and ABC stackings considerably differ from one another in terms of the inter-LL category, frequency, intensity, and structure of absorption peaks. The main characteristics of LL wavefunctions and energy spectra and the Fermi-Dirac function are responsible for the configuration-enriched magneto-optical spectra.

  4. Low birefringent magneto-optical waveguides fabricated via organic-inorganic sol-gel process

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Choueikani, F.; Royer, F.; Douadi, S.; Skora, A.; Jamon, D.; Blanc, D.; Siblini, A.

    2009-09-01

    This paper is devoted to the study and the characterization of novel magneto-optical waveguides prepared via organic-inorganic sol-gel process. Thin silica/zirconia films doped with magnetic nanoparticles were coated on glass substrate using dip-coating technique. After annealing, samples were UV-treated. Two different techniques were used to measure their properties: m-lines spectroscopy and free space ellipsometry. Results evidence low refractive index waveguides that combine a low modal birefringence (2×10-4) with a Faraday rotation around 15 °/cm (φ = 0.1%). The low birefringence is obtained with a soft UV treatment and a graded intrinsic anisotropy is evidenced for films thicker than 5 μm. Therefore, we prove that the organic-inorganic sol-gel approach is very promising to realize magneto-optical waveguides with a non-reciprocal functionality such as TE-TM mode conversion.

  5. An Analysis of the Magneto-Optic Imaging System

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Nath, Shridhar

    1996-01-01

    The Magneto-Optic Imaging system is being used for the detection of defects in airframes and other aircraft structures. The system has been successfully applied to detecting surface cracks, but has difficulty in the detection of sub-surface defects such as corrosion. The intent of the grant was to understand the physics of the MOI better, in order to use it effectively for detecting corrosion and for classifying surface defects. Finite element analysis, image classification, and image processing are addressed.

  6. Nonlinear magneto-plasmonics

    DOE PAGES

    Zheng, Wei; Liu, Xiao; Hanbicki, Aubrey T.; ...

    2015-10-19

    Nonlinear magneto-plasmonics (NMP) describes systems where nonlinear optics, magnetics and plasmonics are all involved. In such systems, nonlinear magneto-optical Kerr effect (nonlinear MOKE) plays an important role as a characterization method, and Surface Plasmons (SPs) work as catalyst to induce many new effects. Magnetization-induced second-harmonic generation (MSHG) is the major nonlinear magneto-optical process involved. The new effects include enhanced MSHG, controlled and enhanced magnetic contrast, etc. Nanostructures such as thin films, nanoparticles, nanogratings, and nanoarrays are critical for the excitation of SPs, which makes NMP an interdisciplinary research field in nanoscience and nanotechnology. In this review article, we organize recentmore » work in this field into two categories: surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) representing propagating surface plasmons, and localized surface plasmons (LSPs), also called particle plasmons. We review the structures, experiments, findings, and the applications of NMP from various groups.« less

  7. Optical and magneto-optical properties of AuMnSn

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lee, S. J.; Janssen, Y.; Park, J. M.; Cho, B. K.

    2006-03-01

    We have measured room-temperature magneto-optical properties of AuMnSn on a single-crystalline sample. The maximum polar Kerr rotation was predicted to be very large, about -0.7° at 1.2eV [L. Offernes, P. Ravindran, and A. Kjekshus, Appl. Phys. Lett. 82, 2862 (2003)]. We found the experimental maximum Kerr rotation and ellipticity were about three times smaller than predicted and appeared at energies about 0.6eV higher than predicted, which is possibly due to inaccurate handling of the theory based on the local spin-density approximation to density-function theory for the localized 4d and 5d orbitals in AuMnSn.

  8. Single-resonance optical pumping spectroscopy and application in dressed-state measurement with atomic vapor cell at room temperature.

    PubMed

    Liang, Qiangbing; Yang, Baodong; Zhang, Tiancai; Wang, Junmin

    2010-06-21

    By monitoring the transmission of probe laser beam (also served as coupling laser beam) which is locked to a cycling hyperfine transition of cesium D(2) line, while pumping laser is scanned across cesium D(1) or D(2) lines, the single-resonance optical pumping (SROP) spectra are obtained with atomic vapor cell. The SROP spectra indicate the variation of the zero-velocity atoms population of one hyperfine fold of ground state, which is optically pumped into another hyperfine fold of ground state by pumping laser. With the virtue of Doppler-free linewidth, high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), flat background and elimination of crossover resonance lines (CRLs), the SROP spectra with atomic vapor cell around room temperature can be employed to measure dressed-state splitting of ground state, which is normally detected with laser-cooled atomic sample only, even if the dressed-state splitting is much smaller than the Doppler-broaden linewidth at room temperature.

  9. Retinal light trapping in textured photovoltaic cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kravets, V. G.; Grigorenko, A. N.

    2010-10-01

    We suggest a new structure for light trapping in solar cells which is loosely based on retina of human eye. In this design, the incident light is scattered by noble metal nanoparticles acting as amacrine retinal cells and then is guided and concentrated by conelike structures. We show that the proposed textured structure should lead to a significant enhancement of optical path of trapped light resulting in a higher degree of light conversion into electric current. The proposed design should work efficiently in direct sunlight and in cloudy weather.

  10. 3D-printed external light trap for solar cells.

    PubMed

    van Dijk, Lourens; Paetzold, Ulrich W; Blab, Gerhard A; Schropp, Ruud E I; di Vece, Marcel

    2016-05-01

    We present a universally applicable 3D-printed external light trap for enhanced absorption in solar cells. The macroscopic external light trap is placed at the sun-facing surface of the solar cell and retro-reflects the light that would otherwise escape. The light trap consists of a reflective parabolic concentrator placed on top of a reflective cage. Upon placement of the light trap, an improvement of 15% of both the photocurrent and the power conversion efficiency in a thin-film nanocrystalline silicon (nc-Si:H) solar cell is measured. The trapped light traverses the solar cell several times within the reflective cage thereby increasing the total absorption in the cell. Consequently, the trap reduces optical losses and enhances the absorption over the entire spectrum. The components of the light trap are 3D printed and made of smoothened, silver-coated thermoplastic. In contrast to conventional light trapping methods, external light trapping leaves the material quality and the electrical properties of the solar cell unaffected. To explain the theoretical operation of the external light trap, we introduce a model that predicts the absorption enhancement in the solar cell by the external light trap. The corresponding calculated path length enhancement shows good agreement with the empirically derived value from the opto-electrical data of the solar cell. Moreover, we analyze the influence of the angle of incidence on the parasitic absorptance to obtain full understanding of the trap performance. © 2015 The Authors. Progress in Photovoltaics: Research and Applications published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

  11. Verification of antiferromagnetic exchange coupling at room temperature using polar magneto-optic Kerr effect in thin EuS/Co multilayers with perpendicular magnetic anisotropy

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Goschew, A., E-mail: alexander.goschew@fu-berlin.de; Scott, M.; Fumagalli, P.

    2016-08-08

    We report on magneto-optic Kerr measurements in polar geometry carried out on a series of thin Co/EuS multilayers on suitable Co/Pd-multilayer substrates. Thin Co/EuS multilayers of a few nanometers individual layer thickness usually have their magnetization in plane. Co/Pd multilayers introduce a perpendicular magnetic anisotropy in the Co/EuS layers deposited on top, thus making it possible to measure magneto-optic signals in the polar geometry in remanence in order to study exchange coupling. Magneto-optic Kerr-effect spectra and hysteresis loops were recorded in the visible and ultraviolet photon-energy range at room temperature. The EuS contribution to the magneto-optic signal is extracted atmore » 4.1 eV by combining hysteresis loops measured at different photon energies with polar magneto-optic Kerr-effect spectra recorded in remanence and in an applied magnetic field of 2.2 T. The extracted EuS signal shows clear signs of antiferromagnetic coupling of the Eu magnetic moments to the Co layers. This implies that the ordering temperature of at least a fraction of the EuS layers is above room temperature proving that magneto-optic Kerr-effect spectroscopy can be used here as a quasi-element-specific method.« less

  12. An Orthotropic Oven for Loading Vapor Traps

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Maddi, J.; Dinneen, T.; Gould, H.

    1998-05-01

    Orthotropic ovens(T. Dinneen, A. Ghiorso, and H. Gould, Rev. Sci. Inst. 67, 752 (1996) ) produce collimated beams of alkali atoms with high efficiency. They are useful for producing beams of rare species such as short-lived radioactive atoms. We describe the design and operation of the UHV orthotropic oven used in vapor-capture trapping and cooling(Z.-T. Lu, K.L. Corwin, K.R. Vogel, C.E. Wieman, T.P. Dinneen, J. Maddi, and H. Gould, Phys. Rev. Lett. 79, 994 (1997)) of ^221Fr, and recent improvments in its design.

  13. Optical trapping reveals propulsion forces, power generation and motility efficiency of the unicellular parasites Trypanosoma brucei brucei

    PubMed Central

    Stellamanns, Eric; Uppaluri, Sravanti; Hochstetter, Axel; Heddergott, Niko; Engstler, Markus; Pfohl, Thomas

    2014-01-01

    Unicellular parasites have developed sophisticated swimming mechanisms to survive in a wide range of environments. Cell motility of African trypanosomes, parasites responsible for fatal illness in humans and animals, is crucial both in the insect vector and the mammalian host. Using millisecond-scale imaging in a microfluidics platform along with a custom made optical trap, we are able to confine single cells to study trypanosome motility. From the trapping characteristics of the cells, we determine the propulsion force generated by cells with a single flagellum as well as of dividing trypanosomes with two fully developed flagella. Estimates of the dissipative energy and the power generation of single cells obtained from the motility patterns of the trypanosomes within the optical trap indicate that specific motility characteristics, in addition to locomotion, may be required for antibody clearance. Introducing a steerable second optical trap we could further measure the force, which is generated at the flagellar tip. Differences in the cellular structure of the trypanosomes are correlated with the trapping and motility characteristics and in consequence with their propulsion force, dissipative energy and power generation. PMID:25269514

  14. Improved longitudinal magneto-optic Kerr effect signal contrast from nanomagnets with dielectric coatings

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Holiday, L. F.; Gibson, U. J.

    2006-12-01

    We report on the use of dielectric coatings to improve the contrast of longitudinal magneto-optic Kerr effect signals from submicron magnetic structures. Electron-beam lithography was used to define disks in 22 nm thick Ni films deposited on Si substrates. The structures were measured in four configurations: as-deposited, through a fused silica prism using index-matching fluid, coated with ZnS, and using a prism on top of the ZnS layer. The modified samples show up to 20 times improvement in the MOKE contrast due to admittance matching to the magnetic material and suppression of the substrate reflectance. The behavior is successfully predicted by a model that includes the magneto-optic response of the nickel layer and accounts for the fraction of the beam intercepted by the magnetic structure.

  15. Magneto-optical properties of PdCo based multilayered films

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Nakamura, K.; Tsunashima, S.; Iwata, S.

    1989-09-01

    Magneto-optical and magnetic properties of multilayered films composed of PdCo alloy and other noble metal (Pd, Pt or Cu) layers are investigated. Multilayered films were prepared by RF magnetron sputtering method. Kerr rotation spectra (275nm-800nm) of Pd/Co multilayered films resemble those of PdCo alloys. In the films composed of PdCo alloy and Pt bilayers, the Kerr rotation increases with increasing Pt content while the perpendicular anisotropy decreases.

  16. Properties of Exchange Coupled All-garnet Magneto-Optic Thin Film Multilayer Structures

    PubMed Central

    Nur-E-Alam, Mohammad; Vasiliev, Mikhail; Kotov, Viacheslav A.; Balabanov, Dmitry; Akimov, Ilya; Alameh, Kamal

    2015-01-01

    The effects of exchange coupling on magnetic switching properties of all-garnet multilayer thin film structures are investigated. All-garnet structures are fabricated by sandwiching a magneto-soft material of composition type Bi1.8Lu1.2Fe3.6Al1.4O12 or Bi3Fe5O12:Dy2O3 in between two magneto-hard garnet material layers of composition type Bi2Dy1Fe4Ga1O12 or Bi2Dy1Fe4Ga1O12:Bi2O3. The fabricated RF magnetron sputtered exchange-coupled all-garnet multilayers demonstrate a very attractive combination of magnetic properties, and are of interest for emerging applications in optical sensors and isolators, ultrafast nanophotonics and magneto-plasmonics. An unconventional type of magnetic hysteresis behavior not observed previously in magnetic garnet thin films is reported and discussed. PMID:28788043

  17. Graded-index fiber tip optical tweezers: numerical simulation and trapping experiment.

    PubMed

    Gong, Yuan; Ye, Ai-Yan; Wu, Yu; Rao, Yun-Jiang; Yao, Yao; Xiao, Song

    2013-07-01

    Optical fiber tweezers based on a graded-index multimode fiber (GIMMF) tip is proposed. Light propagation characteristics and gradient force distribution near the GIMMF tip are numerically investigated, which are further compared with that of optical fiber tips based on conventional single mode fibers. The simulated results indicated that by selecting optimal GIMMF length, the gradient force of the GIMMF tip tweezers is about 4 times higher than that of the SMF tip tweezers with a same shape. To prove the feasibility of such a new concept, optical trapping of yeast cells with a diameter of ~5 μm using the chemically-etched GIMMF tip is experimentally demonstrated and the trapping force is also calculated.

  18. Magneto-optical waveguides made of cobalt ferrite nanoparticles embedded in silica/zirconia organic-inorganic matrix

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Choueikani, Fadi; Royer, François; Jamon, Damien; Siblini, Ali; Rousseau, Jean Jacques; Neveu, Sophie; Charara, Jamal

    2009-02-01

    This paper describes a way to develop magneto-optical waveguides via sol-gel process. They are made of cobalt ferrite nanoparticles embedded in a silica/zirconia matrix. Thin films are coated on glass substrate using the dip-coating technique. Annealing and UV treatment are applied to finalize sample preparation. Therefore, planar waveguides combining magneto-optical properties with a low refractive index (≈1,5) are obtained. M-lines and free space ellipsometry measurements show a specific Faraday rotation of 250°/cm and a modal birefringence of 1×10-4 at 820 nm. Thus, the mode conversion efficiency can reach a maximum value around 56%.

  19. Optimizing phase to enhance optical trap stiffness.

    PubMed

    Taylor, Michael A

    2017-04-03

    Phase optimization offers promising capabilities in optical tweezers, allowing huge increases in the applied forces, trap stiff-ness, or measurement sensitivity. One key obstacle to potential applications is the lack of an efficient algorithm to compute an optimized phase profile, with enhanced trapping experiments relying on slow programs that would take up to a week to converge. Here we introduce an algorithm that reduces the wait from days to minutes. We characterize the achievable in-crease in trap stiffness and its dependence on particle size, refractive index, and optical polarization. We further show that phase-only control can achieve almost all of the enhancement possible with full wavefront shaping; for instance phase control allows 62 times higher trap stiffness for 10 μm silica spheres in water, while amplitude control and non-trivial polarization further increase this by 1.26 and 1.01 respectively. This algorithm will facilitate future applications in optical trapping, and more generally in wavefront optimization.

  20. Optical and magneto-optical properties of Co-doped CeO{sub 2−δ} films in the 0.5 to 4 eV range

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Veis, M., E-mail: veis@karlov.mff.cuni.cz; Kucera, M.; Zahradnik, M.

    2014-05-07

    Magnetically doped Ce{sub 1−x}Co{sub x}O{sub 2−δ} (nominal x = 0.05 and 0.10) films were systematically studied by spectroscopic ellipsometry and magneto-optical spectroscopy. The samples were prepared by pulsed laser deposition on MgO(100) substrates and grew as textured polycrystalline films with thickness between 200 and 750 nm. They exhibited room temperature ferromagnetism and an out-of-plane easy axis attributed to magnetoelastic effects from the in-plane compressive strain. The dispersion of dielectric function of Ce{sub 1−x}Co{sub x}O{sub 2−δ} films was parametrized by the sum of Tauc-Lorentz and damped Lorentz oscillators and adjusted numerically. Deduced optical band gaps were similar to those of pure CeO{sub 2}, butmore » the Co doping increased the optical absorption. The magneto-optical spectroscopy was carried out in both Faraday and Kerr configurations in the photon energy range from 0.5 to 4 eV, showing a strong dependence of the magneto-optical effect on the Co content near the optical band edge.« less

  1. Effective-mass model and magneto-optical properties in hybrid perovskites

    PubMed Central

    Yu, Z. G.

    2016-01-01

    Hybrid inorganic-organic perovskites have proven to be a revolutionary material for low-cost photovoltaic applications. They also exhibit many other interesting properties, including giant Rashba splitting, large-radius Wannier excitons, and novel magneto-optical effects. Understanding these properties as well as the detailed mechanism of photovoltaics requires a reliable and accessible electronic structure, on which models of transport, excitonic, and magneto-optical properties can be efficiently developed. Here we construct an effective-mass model for the hybrid perovskites based on the group theory, experiment, and first-principles calculations. Using this model, we relate the Rashba splitting with the inversion-asymmetry parameter in the tetragonal perovskites, evaluate anisotropic g-factors for both conduction and valence bands, and elucidate the magnetic-field effect on photoluminescence and its dependence on the intensity of photoexcitation. The diamagnetic effect of exciton is calculated for an arbitrarily strong magnetic field. The pronounced excitonic peak emerged at intermediate magnetic fields in cyclotron resonance is assigned to the 3D±2 states, whose splitting can be used to estimate the difference in the effective masses of electron and hole. PMID:27338834

  2. Magneto-optical quantum interferences in a system of spinor excitons

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kuan, Wen-Hsuan; Gudmundsson, Vidar

    2018-04-01

    In this work we investigate magneto-optical properties of two-dimensional semiconductor quantum-ring excitons with Rashba and Dresselhaus spin-orbit interactions threaded by a magnetic flux perpendicular to the plane of the ring. By calculating the excitonic Aharonov-Bohm spectrum, we study the Coulomb and spin-orbit effects on the Aharonov-Bohm features. From the light-matter interactions of the excitons, we find that for scalar excitons, there are open channels for spontaneous recombination resulting in a bright photoluminescence spectrum, whereas the forbidden recombination of dipolar excitons results in a dark photoluminescence spectrum. We investigate the generation of persistent charge and spin currents. The exploration of spin orientations manifests that by adjusting the strength of the spin-orbit interactions, the exciton can be constructed as a squeezed complex with specific spin polarization. Moreover, a coherently moving dipolar exciton acquires a nontrivial dual Aharonov-Casher phase, creating the possibility to generate persistent dipole currents and spin dipole currents. Our study reveals that in the presence of certain spin-orbit generated fields, the manipulation of the magnetic field provides a potential application for quantum-ring spinor excitons to be utilized in nano-scaled magneto-optical switches.

  3. A combined electrochemical and optical trapping platform for measuring single cell respiration rates at electrode interfaces.

    PubMed

    Gross, Benjamin J; El-Naggar, Mohamed Y

    2015-06-01

    Metal-reducing bacteria gain energy by extracellular electron transfer to external solids, such as naturally abundant minerals, which substitute for oxygen or the other common soluble electron acceptors of respiration. This process is one of the earliest forms of respiration on earth and has significant environmental and technological implications. By performing electron transfer to electrodes instead of minerals, these microbes can be used as biocatalysts for conversion of diverse chemical fuels to electricity. Understanding such a complex biotic-abiotic interaction necessitates the development of tools capable of probing extracellular electron transfer down to the level of single cells. Here, we describe an experimental platform for single cell respiration measurements. The design integrates an infrared optical trap, perfusion chamber, and lithographically fabricated electrochemical chips containing potentiostatically controlled transparent indium tin oxide microelectrodes. Individual bacteria are manipulated using the optical trap and placed on the microelectrodes, which are biased at a suitable oxidizing potential in the absence of any chemical electron acceptor. The potentiostat is used to detect the respiration current correlated with cell-electrode contact. We demonstrate the system with single cell measurements of the dissimilatory-metal reducing bacterium Shewanella oneidensis MR-1, which resulted in respiration currents ranging from 15 fA to 100 fA per cell under our measurement conditions. Mutants lacking the outer-membrane cytochromes necessary for extracellular respiration did not result in any measurable current output upon contact. In addition to the application for extracellular electron transfer studies, the ability to electronically measure cell-specific respiration rates may provide answers for a variety of fundamental microbial physiology questions.

  4. A combined electrochemical and optical trapping platform for measuring single cell respiration rates at electrode interfaces

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gross, Benjamin J.; El-Naggar, Mohamed Y.

    2015-06-01

    Metal-reducing bacteria gain energy by extracellular electron transfer to external solids, such as naturally abundant minerals, which substitute for oxygen or the other common soluble electron acceptors of respiration. This process is one of the earliest forms of respiration on earth and has significant environmental and technological implications. By performing electron transfer to electrodes instead of minerals, these microbes can be used as biocatalysts for conversion of diverse chemical fuels to electricity. Understanding such a complex biotic-abiotic interaction necessitates the development of tools capable of probing extracellular electron transfer down to the level of single cells. Here, we describe an experimental platform for single cell respiration measurements. The design integrates an infrared optical trap, perfusion chamber, and lithographically fabricated electrochemical chips containing potentiostatically controlled transparent indium tin oxide microelectrodes. Individual bacteria are manipulated using the optical trap and placed on the microelectrodes, which are biased at a suitable oxidizing potential in the absence of any chemical electron acceptor. The potentiostat is used to detect the respiration current correlated with cell-electrode contact. We demonstrate the system with single cell measurements of the dissimilatory-metal reducing bacterium Shewanella oneidensis MR-1, which resulted in respiration currents ranging from 15 fA to 100 fA per cell under our measurement conditions. Mutants lacking the outer-membrane cytochromes necessary for extracellular respiration did not result in any measurable current output upon contact. In addition to the application for extracellular electron transfer studies, the ability to electronically measure cell-specific respiration rates may provide answers for a variety of fundamental microbial physiology questions.

  5. Valley- and spin-polarized oscillatory magneto-optical absorption in monolayer MoS2 quantum rings

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Oliveira, D.; Villegas-Lelovsky, L.; Soler, M. A. G.; Qu, Fanyao

    2018-03-01

    Besides optical valley selectivity, strong spin-orbit interaction along with Berry curvature effects also leads to unconventional valley- and spin-polarized Landau levels in monolayer transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) under a perpendicular magnetic field. We find that these unique properties are inherited to the magneto-optical absorption spectrum of the TMDC quantum rings (QRs). In addition, it is robust against variation of the magnetic flux and of the QR geometry. In stark contrast to the monolayer bulk material, the MoS2 QRs manifest themselves in both the optical valley selectivity and unprecedented size tunability of the frequency of the light absorbed. We also find that when the magnetic field setup is changed, the phase transition from Aharonov-Bohm (AB) quantum interference to aperiodic oscillation of magneto-optical absorption spectrum takes place. The exciton spectrum in a realistic finite thickness MoS2 QR is also discussed.

  6. The magneto-optical properties of non-uniform graphene nanoribbons

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chung, Hsien-Ching; Lin, Ming-Fa

    2015-03-01

    When synthesizing few-layer graphene nanoribbons (GNRs), non-uniform GNRs would be made simultaneously. Recently, the non-uniform GNRs, which is a stack of two GNRs with unequal widths, have been fabricated by mechanically exfoliated from bulk graphite. Some theoretical predictions have been reported, such as gap opening and transport properties. Under the influence of magnetic fields, magnetic quantization takes place and drastically changes the electronic properties. By tuning the geometric configuration, four categories of magneto-electronic spectra are exhibited. (1) The spectrum is mostly contributed by quasi-Landau levels (QLLs) of monolayer GNRs. (2) The spectrum displays two groups of QLLs, and the non-uniform GNR behaves like a bilayer one. (3) An intermediate category, the spectrum is composite disordered. (4) The spectrum presents the coexistence of monolayer and bilayer spectra. In this work, the magneto-electronic and optical properties for different geometric configurations are given, such as energy dispersions, density of states, wave functions, and magneto-absorption spectra are presented. Furthermore, the transformation between monolayer and bilayer spectra as well as the coexistence of monolayer and bilayer spectra are discussed in detail. One of us (Hsien-Ching Chung) thanks Ming-Hui Chung and Su-Ming Chen for financial support. This work was supported in part by the National Science Council of Taiwan under Grant Number 98-2112-M-006-013-MY4.

  7. Modeling of coherent ultrafast magneto-optical experiments: Light-induced molecular mean-field model

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Hinschberger, Y.; Hervieux, P.-A.

    2015-12-28

    We present calculations which aim to describe coherent ultrafast magneto-optical effects observed in time-resolved pump-probe experiments. Our approach is based on a nonlinear semi-classical Drude-Voigt model and is used to interpret experiments performed on nickel ferromagnetic thin film. Within this framework, a phenomenological light-induced coherent molecular mean-field depending on the polarizations of the pump and probe pulses is proposed whose microscopic origin is related to a spin-orbit coupling involving the electron spins of the material sample and the electric field of the laser pulses. Theoretical predictions are compared to available experimental data. The model successfully reproduces the observed experimental trendsmore » and gives meaningful insight into the understanding of magneto-optical rotation behavior in the ultrafast regime. Theoretical predictions for further experimental studies are also proposed.« less

  8. Synthesis of Immunotargeted Magneto-plasmonic Nanoclusters

    PubMed Central

    Wu, Chun-Hsien; Sokolov, Konstantin

    2014-01-01

    Magnetic and plasmonic properties combined in a single nanoparticle provide a synergy that is advantageous in a number of biomedical applications including contrast enhancement in novel magnetomotive imaging modalities, simultaneous capture and detection of circulating tumor cells (CTCs), and multimodal molecular imaging combined with photothermal therapy of cancer cells. These applications have stimulated significant interest in development of protocols for synthesis of magneto-plasmonic nanoparticles with optical absorbance in the near-infrared (NIR) region and a strong magnetic moment. Here, we present a novel protocol for synthesis of such hybrid nanoparticles that is based on an oil-in-water microemulsion method. The unique feature of the protocol described herein is synthesis of magneto-plasmonic nanoparticles of various sizes from primary blocks which also have magneto-plasmonic characteristics. This approach yields nanoparticles with a high density of magnetic and plasmonic functionalities which are uniformly distributed throughout the nanoparticle volume. The hybrid nanoparticles can be easily functionalized by attaching antibodies through the Fc moiety leaving the Fab portion that is responsible for antigen binding available for targeting. PMID:25177973

  9. Synthesis of immunotargeted magneto-plasmonic nanoclusters.

    PubMed

    Wu, Chun-Hsien; Sokolov, Konstantin

    2014-08-22

    Magnetic and plasmonic properties combined in a single nanoparticle provide a synergy that is advantageous in a number of biomedical applications including contrast enhancement in novel magnetomotive imaging modalities, simultaneous capture and detection of circulating tumor cells (CTCs), and multimodal molecular imaging combined with photothermal therapy of cancer cells. These applications have stimulated significant interest in development of protocols for synthesis of magneto-plasmonic nanoparticles with optical absorbance in the near-infrared (NIR) region and a strong magnetic moment. Here, we present a novel protocol for synthesis of such hybrid nanoparticles that is based on an oil-in-water microemulsion method. The unique feature of the protocol described herein is synthesis of magneto-plasmonic nanoparticles of various sizes from primary blocks which also have magneto-plasmonic characteristics. This approach yields nanoparticles with a high density of magnetic and plasmonic functionalities which are uniformly distributed throughout the nanoparticle volume. The hybrid nanoparticles can be easily functionalized by attaching antibodies through the Fc moiety leaving the Fab portion that is responsible for antigen binding available for targeting.

  10. Optical gain in an optically driven three-level ? system in atomic Rb vapor

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ballmann, C. W.; Yakovlev, V. V.

    2018-06-01

    In this work, we report experimentally achieved optical gain of a weak probe beam in a three-level ? system in a low density Rubidium vapor cell driven by a single pump beam. The maximum measured gain of the probe beam was about 0.12%. This work could lead to new approaches for enhancing molecular spectroscopy applications.

  11. An Optical Trap for Relativistic Plasma

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Ping

    2002-11-01

    Optical traps have achieved remarkable success recently in confining ultra-cold matter.Traps capable of confining ultra-hot matter, or plasma, have also been built for applications such as basic plasma research and thermonuclear fusion. For instance, low-density plasmas with temperature less than 1 keV have been confined with static magnetic fields in Malmberg-Penning traps. Low-density 10-50 keV plasmas are confined in magnetic mirrors and tokamaks. High density plasmas have been trapped in optical traps with kinetic energies up to 10 keV [J. L. Chaloupka and D. D. Meyerhofer, Phys. Rev. Lett. 83, 4538 (1999)]. We present the results of experiment, theory and numerical simulation on an optical trap capable of confining relativistic plasma. A stationary interference grating with submicron spacing is created when two high-power (terawatt) laser pulses of equal wavelength (1-micron) are focused from orthogonal directions to the same point in space and time in high density underdense plasma. Light pressure gradients bunch electrons into sheets located at the minima of the interference pattern. The density of the bunched electrons is found to be up to ten times the background density, which is orders-of-magnitude above that previously reported for other optical traps or plasma waves. The amplitudes and frequencies of multiple satellites in the scattered spectrum also indicate the presence of a highly nonlinear ion wave and an electron temperature about 100 keV. Energy transfer from the stronger beam to the weaker beam is also observed. Potential applications include a test-bed for detailed studies of relativistic nonlinear scattering, a positron source and an electrostatic wiggler. This research is also relevant to fast igniter fusion or ion acceleration experiments, in which laser pulses with intensities comparable to those used in the experiment may also potentially beat [Y. Sentoku, et al., Appl. Phys. B 74, 207215 (2002)]. The details of a specific application, the

  12. Development of GaInP Solar Cells Grown by Hydride Vapor Phase Epitaxy

    DOE PAGES

    Schulte, Kevin L.; Simon, John; Mangum, John; ...

    2017-04-30

    We demonstrate the growth of homojunction GaInP solar cells by dynamic hydride vapor phase epitaxy for the first time. Simple unpassivated n-on-p structures grown in an inverted configuration with gold back reflectors were analyzed. Short wavelength performance varied strongly with emitter thickness, since collection in the emitter was limited by the lack of surface passivation. Collection in the base increased strongly with decreasing doping density, in the range 1 x 10 16 - 5 x 10 17 cm -3. Optical modeling indicated that, in our best device, doped ~1 x 10 16 cm -3, almost 94% of photons that passedmore » through the emitter were collected. Modeling also indicated that the majority of collection occurs in the depletion region with this design, suggesting that nonradiative recombination there might limit device performance. In agreement with this observation, the experimental dark J-V curve exhibited an ideality factor near n = 2. Thus, limitation of deep level carrier traps in the material is a path to improved performance. Preliminary experiments indicate that a reduced V/III ratio, which potentially affects the density of these presumed traps, improves cell performance. With reduced V/III ratio, we demonstrate a ~13% efficient GaInP cell measured under the 1-sun AM1.5G spectrum. In conclusion, this cell had an antireflective coating, but no front surface passivation.« less

  13. Counter-propagating optical trapping system for size and refractive index measurement of microparticles.

    PubMed

    Flynn, Richard A; Shao, Bing; Chachisvilis, Mirianas; Ozkan, Mihrimah; Esener, Sadik C

    2006-01-15

    We propose and demonstrate a novel approach to measure the size and refractive index of microparticles based on two beam optical trapping, where forward scattered light is detected to give information about the particle. The counter-propagating optical trap measurement (COTM) system exploits the capability of optical traps to measure pico-Newton forces for microparticles' refractive index and size characterization. Different from the current best technique for microparticles' refractive index measurement, refractometry, a bulk technique requiring changing the fluid composition of the sample, our optical trap technique works with any transparent fluid and enables single particle analysis without the use of biological markers. A ray-optics model is used to explore the physical operation of the COTM system, predict system performance and aid system design. Experiments demonstrate the accuracy of refractive index measurement of Deltan=0.013 and size measurement of 3% of diameter with 2% standard deviation. Present performance is instrumentation limited, and a potential improvement by more than two orders of magnitude can be expected in the future. With further development in parallelism and miniaturization, the system offers advantages for cell manipulation and bioanalysis compatible with lab-on-a-chip systems.

  14. Magneto-optical microcavity with Au plasmonic layer

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mikhailova, T. V.; Lyashko, S. D.; Tomilin, S. V.; Karavainikov, A. V.; Prokopov, A. R.; Shaposhnikov, A. N.; Berzhansky, V. N.

    2017-11-01

    Optical and Faraday rotation spectra of magneto-optical microcavity coated with Au plasmonic layer of gradient thickness were investigated theoretically and experimentally. It was shown that the Tamm plasmon-polaritons mode forms near the long-wavelength edge of photonic band gap. The presence of Au coating of thickness of 90.4 nm increase the Faraday rotation at Tamm plasmon-polaritons and cavity resonances in 1.3 and 7 times, respectively. By transfer matrix method it were found that the incorporation of SiO2 buffer layer with a thickness in the range from 155 to 180 nm between microcavity and Au coating leads to the strong coupling between cavity mode and Tamm plasmon-polaritons. In this case, one or two resonances arise in the vicinity of the cavity mode depending on the thickness of plasmonic layer. The Faraday rotation for coupled mode in twice less than the value of rotation for single cavity mode.

  15. Electronic structure and magneto-optical effects in CeSb

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Liechtenstein, A.I.; Antropov, V.P.; Harmon, B.N.

    1994-04-15

    The electronic structure and magneto-optical spectra of CeSb have been calculated using the self-consistent local-density approximation with explicit on-site Coulomb parameters for the correlated [ital f] state of cerium. The essential electronic structure of cerium antimonide consists of one occupied [ital f] band, predominantly with orbital [ital m]=[minus]3 character and spin [sigma]=1 located 2 eV below the Fermi level and interacting with broad Sb [ital p] bands crossing [ital E][sub [ital F

  16. A combined electrochemical and optical trapping platform for measuring single cell respiration rates at electrode interfaces

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Gross, Benjamin J.; El-Naggar, Mohamed Y., E-mail: mnaggar@usc.edu; Molecular and Computational Biology Section, Department of Biological Sciences, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California 90089-0484

    2015-06-15

    Metal-reducing bacteria gain energy by extracellular electron transfer to external solids, such as naturally abundant minerals, which substitute for oxygen or the other common soluble electron acceptors of respiration. This process is one of the earliest forms of respiration on earth and has significant environmental and technological implications. By performing electron transfer to electrodes instead of minerals, these microbes can be used as biocatalysts for conversion of diverse chemical fuels to electricity. Understanding such a complex biotic-abiotic interaction necessitates the development of tools capable of probing extracellular electron transfer down to the level of single cells. Here, we describe anmore » experimental platform for single cell respiration measurements. The design integrates an infrared optical trap, perfusion chamber, and lithographically fabricated electrochemical chips containing potentiostatically controlled transparent indium tin oxide microelectrodes. Individual bacteria are manipulated using the optical trap and placed on the microelectrodes, which are biased at a suitable oxidizing potential in the absence of any chemical electron acceptor. The potentiostat is used to detect the respiration current correlated with cell-electrode contact. We demonstrate the system with single cell measurements of the dissimilatory-metal reducing bacterium Shewanella oneidensis MR-1, which resulted in respiration currents ranging from 15 fA to 100 fA per cell under our measurement conditions. Mutants lacking the outer-membrane cytochromes necessary for extracellular respiration did not result in any measurable current output upon contact. In addition to the application for extracellular electron transfer studies, the ability to electronically measure cell-specific respiration rates may provide answers for a variety of fundamental microbial physiology questions.« less

  17. Giant enhancement of Faraday rotation due to electromagnetically induced transparency in all-dielectric magneto-optical metasurfaces.

    PubMed

    Christofi, Aristi; Kawaguchi, Yuma; Alù, Andrea; Khanikaev, Alexander B

    2018-04-15

    In this Letter we introduce a new class of Fano-resonant all-dielectric metasurfaces for enhanced, high figure of merit magneto-optical response. The metasurfaces are formed by an array of magneto-optical bismuth-substituted yttrium iron garnet nano-disks embedded into a low-index matrix. The strong field enhancement in the magneto-optical disks, which results in over an order of magnitude enhancement of Faraday rotation, is achieved by engineering two (electric and magnetic) resonances. It is shown that while enhancement of rotation also takes place for spectrally detuned resonances, the resonant excitation inevitably results in stronger reflection and low figure of merit of the device. We demonstrate that this can be circumvented by overlapping electric and magnetic resonances of the nanodisks, yielding a sharp electromagnetically induced transparency peak in the transmission spectrum, which is accompanied by gigantic Faraday rotation. Our results show that one can simultaneously obtain a large Faraday rotation enhancement along with almost 100% transmittance in an all-dielectric metasurface as thin as 300 nm. A simple analytical model based on coupled-mode theory is introduced to explain the effects observed in first-principle finite element method simulations.

  18. Coherent Multiple Light Scattering in Ultracold Atomic Rb

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kulatunga, Pasad; Sukenik, C. I.; Balik, Salim; Havey, M. D.; Kupriyanov, D. V.; Sokolov, I. M.

    2003-05-01

    Wave transport in mesoscopic systems can be strongly influenced by coherent multiple scattering,which can lead to novel magneto-optic, transmission, and backscattering effects of light in atomic vapors. Although related to traditional studies of radiation trapping, in ultracold vapors negligible frequency or phase redistribution takes place in the scattering, and high-order coherent light scattering occurs. Among other things, this leads to enhancement of the influence of otherwise small non-resonant terms in the scattering amplitudes. We report investigation of multiple coherent light scattering from ultracold Rb atoms confined in a magneto-optic trap (MOT). In experimental studies, measurements are made of the angular, spectral, and polarization-dependent coherent backscattering profile of a low-intensity probe beam tuned near the F = 3 - F' = 4 hyperfine transition. The influence of higher probe beam intensity is also studied. In a theoretical study of angular intensity enhancement of backscattered light, we consider scattering orders up to 10 and a realistic and asymmetric Gaussian atom distribution in the MOT. Supported by NSF, NATO, and RFBR.

  19. Development of a dual joystick-controlled laser trapping and cutting system for optical micromanipulation of chromosomes inside living cells.

    PubMed

    Harsono, Marcellinus S; Zhu, Qingyuan; Shi, Linda Z; Duquette, Michelle; Berns, Michael W

    2013-02-01

    A multi-joystick robotic laser microscope system used to control two optical traps (tweezers) and one laser scissors has been developed for subcellular organelle manipulation. The use of joysticks has provided a "user-friendly" method for both trapping and cutting of organelles such as chromosomes in live cells. This innovative design has enabled the clean severing of chromosome arms using the laser scissors as well as the ability to easily hold and pull the severed arm using the laser tweezers. Copyright © 2013 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

  20. Ferric oxide quantum dots in stable phosphate glass system and their magneto-optical study

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Garaje, Sunil N.; Apte, Sanjay K.; Kumar, Ganpathy

    2013-02-15

    Graphical abstract: We report synthesis of ferric oxide embedded low melting phosphate glass nanocomposite and also the effect of ferric oxide nanoparticles (NCs) content on the optical and magneto-optical properties of the glasses. Faraday rotation of the glass nanocomposites was measured and showed variation in Verdet constant with concentration of ferric oxide. Interestingly, the host glass itself showed fairly good Verdet constant (11.5°/T cm) and there is a threefold enhancement in the Verdet constant of ferric oxide quantum dot-glass nanocomposite. Highlights: ► We synthesize ferric oxide embedded low melting stable phosphate glass nanocomposite. ► Glasses doped with 0.25 and 2%more » ferric oxide show particle size in the range of 4–12 nm. ► The host phosphate glass itself shows fairly good Verdet constant (11.5°/T cm). ► Glasses doped with 0.25% ferric oxide show high Verdet constant (30.525°/T cm). ► The as synthesis glasses may have potential application in magneto optical devices. -- Abstract: Herein, we report the synthesis of ferric oxide embedded low melting phosphate glass nanocomposite and also the effect of ferric oxide nanoparticles content on the optical and magneto-optical properties of the glasses. The optical study clearly showed red shift in optical cut off with increasing ferric oxide concentration. The band gap of the host glass was observed to be 3.48 eV and it shifted to 3.14 eV after doping with ferric oxide. The glasses doped with 0.25 and 2% ferric oxide showed particle size of 4–6 nm and 8–12 nm, respectively. Faraday rotation of the glass nanocomposites was measured and showed variation in the Verdet constant as per increasing concentration of ferric oxide. Interestingly, the host glass itself showed fairly good Verdet constant (11.5°/T cm) and threefold enhancement was observed in the Verdet constant of ferric oxide quantum dot-glass nanocomposite.« less

  1. Ultra-wideband design of waveguide magneto-optical isolator operating in 1.31mum and 1.55mum band.

    PubMed

    Shoji, Yuya; Mizumoto, Tetsuya

    2007-01-22

    The design of an ultra-wideband waveguide magneto-optical isolator is described. The isolator is based on a Mach-Zehnder interferometer employing nonreciprocal phase shift. The ultra-wideband design is realized by adjusting the wavelength dependence of reciprocal phase difference to compensate for that of nonreciprocal phase difference in the backward direction. We obtained the ultra-wideband design that provides isolation > 35dB from 1.25mum to >1.65mum. This is the proposal of magneto-optical isolator that operates both in 1.31mum band and 1.55mum band.

  2. Optical trapping via guided resonance modes in a Slot-Suzuki-phase photonic crystal lattice.

    PubMed

    Ma, Jing; Martínez, Luis Javier; Povinelli, Michelle L

    2012-03-12

    A novel photonic crystal lattice is proposed for trapping a two-dimensional array of particles. The lattice is created by introducing a rectangular slot in each unit cell of the Suzuki-Phase lattice to enhance the light confinement of guided resonance modes. Large quality factors on the order of 10⁵ are predicted in the lattice. A significant decrease of the optical power required for optical trapping can be achieved compared to our previous design.

  3. Light Trapping for Silicon Solar Cells: Theory and Experiment

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhao, Hui

    Crystalline silicon solar cells have been the mainstream technology for photovoltaic energy conversion since their invention in 1954. Since silicon is an indirect band gap material, its absorption coefficient is low for much of the solar spectrum, and the highest conversion efficiencies are achieved only in cells that are thicker than about 0.1 mm. Light trapping by total internal reflection is important to increase the optical absorption in silicon layers, and becomes increasingly important as the layers are thinned. Light trapping is typically characterized by the enhancement of the absorptance of a solar cell beyond the value for a single pass of the incident beam through an absorbing semiconductor layer. Using an equipartition argument, in 1982 Yablonovitch calculated an enhancement of 4n2 , where n is the refractive index. We have extracted effective light-trapping enhancements from published external quantum efficiency spectra in several dozen silicon solar cells. These results show that this "thermodynamic" enhancement has never been achieved experimentally. The reasons for incomplete light trapping could be poor anti-reflection coating, inefficient light scattering, and parasitic absorption. We report the light-trapping properties of nanocrystalline silicon nip solar cells deposited onto two types of Ag/ZnO backreflectors at United Solar Ovonic, LLC. We prepared the first type by first making silver nanparticles onto a stainless steel substrate, and then overcoating the nanoparticles with a second silver layer. The second type was prepared at United Solar using a continuous silver film. Both types were then overcoated with a ZnO film. The root mean square roughness varied from 27 to 61 nm, and diffuse reflectance at 1000 nm wavelength varied from 0.4 to 0.8. The finished cells have a thin, indium-tin oxide layer on the top that acts as an antireflection coating. For both backreflector types, the short-circuit photocurrent densities J SC for solar

  4. Comparison of vapor formation of water at the solid/water interface to colloidal solutions using optically excited gold nanostructures.

    PubMed

    Baral, Susil; Green, Andrew J; Livshits, Maksim Y; Govorov, Alexander O; Richardson, Hugh H

    2014-02-25

    The phase transformation properties of liquid water to vapor is characterized by optical excitation of the lithographically fabricated single gold nanowrenches and contrasted to the phase transformation properties of gold nanoparticles located and optically excited in a bulk solution system [two and three dimensions]. The 532 nm continuous wave excitation of a single gold nanowrench results in superheating of the water to the spinodal decomposition temperature of 580 ± 20 K with bubble formation below the spinodal decomposition temperature being a rare event. Between the spinodal decomposition temperature and the boiling point liquid water is trapped into a metastable state because a barrier to vapor nucleation exists that must be overcome before the thermodynamically stable state is realized. The phase transformation for an optically heated single gold nanowrench is different from the phase transformation of optically excited colloidal gold nanoparticles solution where collective heating effects dominates and leads to the boiling of the solution exactly at the boiling point. In the solution case, the optically excited ensemble of nanoparticles collectively raises the ambient temperature of water to the boiling point where liquid is converted into vapor. The striking difference in the boiling properties of the single gold nanowrench and the nanoparticle solution system can be explained in terms of the vapor-nucleation mechanism, the volume of the overheated liquid, and the collective heating effect. The interpretation of the observed regimes of heating and vaporization is consistent with our theoretical modeling. In particular, we explain with our theory why the boiling with the collective heating in a solution requires 3 orders of magnitude less intensity compared to the case of optically driven single nanowrench.

  5. Polycrystalline La1-xSrxMnO3 films on silicon: Influence of post-Deposition annealing on structural, (Magneto-)Optical, and (Magneto-)Electrical properties

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Thoma, Patrick; Monecke, Manuel; Buja, Oana-Maria; Solonenko, Dmytro; Dudric, Roxana; Ciubotariu, Oana-Tereza; Albrecht, Manfred; Deac, Iosif G.; Tetean, Romulus; Zahn, Dietrich R. T.; Salvan, Georgeta

    2018-01-01

    The integration of La1-xSrxMnO3 (LSMO) thin film technology into established industrial silicon processes is regarded as challenging due to lattice mismatch, thermal expansion, and chemical reactions at the interface of LSMO and silicon. In this work, we investigated the physical properties of thin La0.73Sr0.27MnO3 films deposited by magnetron sputtering on silicon without a lattice matching buffer layer. The influence of a post-deposition annealing treatment on the structural, (magneto-)optical, and (magneto-)electrical properties was investigated by a variety of techniques. Using Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction we could show that the thin films exhibit a polycrystalline, rhombohedral structure after a post-deposition annealing of at least 700 °C. The dielectric tensor in the spectral range from 1.7 eV to 5 eV determined from spectroscopic ellipsometry in combination with magneto-optical Kerr effect spectroscopy was found to be comparable to that of lattice matched films on single crystal substrates reported in literature [1]. The values of the metal-isolator transition temperature and temperature-dependent resistivities also reflect a high degree of crystalline quality of the thermally treated films.

  6. Mass-manufacturable polymer microfluidic device for dual fiber optical trapping.

    PubMed

    De Coster, Diane; Ottevaere, Heidi; Vervaeke, Michael; Van Erps, Jürgen; Callewaert, Manly; Wuytens, Pieter; Simpson, Stephen H; Hanna, Simon; De Malsche, Wim; Thienpont, Hugo

    2015-11-30

    We present a microfluidic chip in Polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) for optical trapping of particles in an 80µm wide microchannel using two counterpropagating single-mode beams. The trapping fibers are separated from the sample fluid by 70µm thick polymer walls. We calculate the optical forces that act on particles flowing in the microchannel using wave optics in combination with non-sequential ray-tracing and further mathematical processing. Our results are compared with a theoretical model and the Mie theory. We use a novel fabrication process that consists of a premilling step and ultraprecision diamond tooling for the manufacturing of the molds and double-sided hot embossing for replication, resulting in a robust microfluidic chip for optical trapping. In a proof-of-concept demonstration, we show the trapping capabilities of the hot embossed chip by trapping spherical beads with a diameter of 6µm, 8µm and 10µm and use the power spectrum analysis of the trapped particle displacements to characterize the trap strength.

  7. Enhanced magneto-optical imaging of internal stresses in the removed surface layer

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Agalidi, Yuriy; Kozhukhar, Pavlo; Levyi, Sergii; Turbin, Dmitriy

    2015-10-01

    The paper describes a software method of reconstructing the state of the removed surface layer by visualising internal stresses in the underlying layers of the sample. Such a problem typically needs to be solved as part of forensic investigation that aims to reveal original marking of a sample with removed surface layer. For example, one may be interested in serial numbers of weapons or vehicles that had the surface layer of metal removed from the number plate. Experimental results of studying gradient internal stress fields in ferromagnetic sample using the NDI method of magneto-optical imaging (MOI) are presented. Numerical modelling results of internal stresses enclosed in the surface marking region are analysed and compared to the experimental results of magneto-optical imaging (MOI). MOI correction algorithm intended for reconstructing internal stress fields in the removed surface layer by extracting stresses retained by the underlying layers is described. Limiting ratios between parameters of a marking font are defined for the considered correction algorithm. Enhanced recognition properties for hidden stresses left by marking symbols are experimentally verified and confirmed.

  8. Water vapor: An extraordinary terahertz wave source under optical excitation

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Johnson, Keith; Price-Gallagher, Matthew; Mamer, Orval; Lesimple, Alain; Fletcher, Clark; Chen, Yunqing; Lu, Xiaofei; Yamaguchi, Masashi; Zhang, X.-C.

    2008-09-01

    In modern terahertz (THz) sensing and imaging spectroscopy, water is considered a nemesis to be avoided due to strong absorption in the THz frequency range. Here we report the first experimental demonstration and theoretical implications of using femtosecond laser pulses to generate intense broadband THz emission from water vapor. When we focused an intense laser pulse in water vapor contained in a gas cell or injected from a gas jet nozzle, an extraordinarily strong THz field from optically excited water vapor is observed. Water vapor has more than 50% greater THz generation efficiency than dry nitrogen. It had previously been assumed that the nonlinear generation of THz waves in this manner primarily involves a free-electron plasma, but we show that the molecular structure plays an essential role in the process. In particular, we found that THz wave generation from H2O vapor is significantly stronger than that from D2O vapor. Vibronic activities of water cluster ions, occurring naturally in water vapor, may possibly contribute to the observed isotope effect along with rovibrational contributions from the predominant monomers.

  9. Nano-composite magnetic material embedded on TiO2 pillars to realize magneto-optical resonant guided mode gratings

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Varghese, B.; Gamet, E.; Jamon, D.; Neveu, S.; Berthod, L.; Shavdina, O.; Reynaud, S.; Verrier, I.; Veillas, C.; Royer, F.

    2016-02-01

    Periodic structuration of magnetic material is a way to enhance the magneto-optical behavior of optical devices like isolators. It is useful to reduce the footprint of such integrated devices or to improve their features. However, the structuration and/or integration of efficient magnetic materials on photonic platforms is still a difficult problem, because classical magneto-optical materials require an annealing temperature as high as 700°C. A novel wafer-scale approach is to incorporate that material into an already structured template through a single step deposition at low temperature. Using the dip-coating method, a magneto-optical thin film (~300nm) of CoFe2O4 nanoparticles in silica matrix prepared by sol-gel technique was coated on a 1D and 2D TiO2 subwavelength gratings. Such gratings were realized by the patterning of TiO2 films obtained by a sol-gel process. It was confirmed by Scanning Electron Microscope images that the magneto-optical composite completely occupies the voids of the 2D structuration showing a good compatibility between both materials. This composite shows a specific Faraday rotation of about 200°cm-1 at 1,5μm for 1% of volume fraction of nanoparticles. Spectral studies of the transmission and the reflection of a 1D TiO2 grating filled with the MO composite have evidenced the presence of a guided-mode optical resonance at 1,55μm. The position of this resonance was confirmed by numerical simulations, as well as its quite low efficiency. Based on simulations results, one can conclude that an increase of the grating depth is required to improve the efficiency of the resonance.

  10. Circularly polarized light to study linear magneto-optics for ferrofluids: θ-scan technique

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Meng, Xiangshen; Huang, Yan; He, Zhenghong; Lin, Yueqiang; Liu, Xiaodong; Li, Decai; Li, Jian; Qiu, Xiaoyan

    2018-06-01

    Circularly polarized light can be divided into two vertically linearly polarized light beams with  ±π/2 phase differences. In the presence of an external magnetic field, when circularly polarized light travels through a ferrofluid film, whose thickness is no more than that of λ/4 plate, magneto-optical, magnetic birefringence and dichroism effects cause the transmitted light to behave as elliptically polarized light. Using angular scan by a continuously rotating polarizer as analyzer, the angular (θ) distribution curve of relative intensity (T) corresponding to elliptically polarized light can be measured. From the T  ‑  θ curve having ellipsometry, the parameters such as the ratio of short to long axis, and angular orientation of the long axis to the vertical field direction can be obtained. Thus, magnetic birefringence and dichroism can be probed simultaneously by measuring magneto-optical, positive or negative birefringence and dichroism features from the transmission mode. The proposed method is called θ-scan technique, and can accurately determine sample stability, magnetic field direction, and cancel intrinsic light source ellipticity. This study may be helpful to further research done to ferrofluids and other similar colloidal samples with anisotropic optics.

  11. Optical trapping apparatus, methods and applications using photonic crystal resonators

    DOEpatents

    Erickson, David; Chen, Yih-Fan

    2015-06-16

    A plurality of photonic crystal resonator optical trapping apparatuses and a plurality optical trapping methods using the plurality of photonic crystal resonator optical trapping apparatuses include located and formed over a substrate a photonic waveguide that is coupled (i.e., either separately coupled or integrally coupled) with a photonic crystal resonator. In a particular embodiment, the photonic waveguide and the photonic crystal resonator comprise a monocrystalline silicon (or other) photonic material absent any chemical functionalization. In another particular embodiment, the photonic waveguide and the photonic crystal resonator comprise a silicon nitride material which when actuating the photonic crystal resonator optical trapping apparatus with a 1064 nanometer resonant photonic radiation wavelength (or other resonant photonic radiation wavelength in a range from about 700 to about 1200 nanometers) provides no appreciable heating of an aqueous sample fluid that is analyzed by the photonic crystal resonator optical trapping apparatus.

  12. Single-cell isolation using a DVD optical pickup

    PubMed Central

    Kasukurti, A.; Potcoava, M.; Desai, S.A.; Eggleton, C.; Marr, D. W. M.

    2011-01-01

    A low-cost single-cell isolation system incorporating a digital versatile disc burner (DVD RW) optical pickup has been developed. We show that these readily available modules have the required laser power and focusing optics to provide a steady Gaussian beam capable of optically trapping micron-sized colloids and red blood cells. Utility of the pickup is demonstrated through the non-destructive isolation of such particles in a laminar-flow based microfluidic device that captures and translates single microscale objects across streamlines into designated channel exits. In this, the integrated objective lens focusing coils are used to steer the optical trap across the channel, resulting in the isolation of colloids and red blood cells using a very inexpensive off-the-shelf optical component. PMID:21643294

  13. Advances in laser and tissue interactions: laser microbeams and optical trapping (Invited Paper)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Serafetinides, Alexander A.; Makropoulou, Mersini; Papadopoulos, Dimitris; Papagiakoumou, Eirini; Pietreanu, D.

    2005-04-01

    The increasing use of lasers in biomedical research and clinical praxis leads to the development and application of new, non-invasive, therapeutic, surgical and diagnostic techniques. In laser surgery, the theory of ablation dictates that pulsed mid-infrared laser beams exhibit strong absorption by soft and hard tissues, restricting residual thermal damage to a minimum zone. Therefore, the development of high quality 3 μm lasers is considered to be an alternative for precise laser ablation of tissue. Among them are the high quality oscillator-two stages amplifier lasers developed, which will be described in this article. The beam quality delivered by these lasers to the biological tissue is of great importance in cutting and ablating operations. As the precision of the ablation is increased, the cutting laser interventions could well move to the microsurgery field. Recently, the combination of a laser scalpel with an optical trapping device, under microscopy control, is becoming increasingly important. Optical manipulation of microscopic particles by focused laser beams, is now widely used as a powerful tool for 'non-contact' micromanipulation of cells and organelles. Several laser sources are employed for trapping and varying laser powers are used in a broad range of applications of optical tweezers. For most of the lasers used, the focal spot of the trapping beam is of the order of a micron. As the trapped objects can vary in size from hundreds of nanometres to hundreds of microns, the technique has recently invaded in to the nanocosomos of genes and molecules. However, the use of optical trapping for quantitative research into biophysical processes requires accurate calculation of the optical forces and torques acting within the trap. The research and development efforts towards a mid-IR microbeam laser system, the design and realization efforts towards a visible laser trapping system and the first results obtained using a relatively new calibration method to

  14. Dynamic testing system for hybrid magneto-optical recording

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chen, Lu; Xu, Wendong; Fan, Yongtao; Zhu, Qing

    2008-12-01

    Hybrid Magneto-Optical Recording is a potential data storage technology in the future informational society. To construct a research platform for hybrid recording, a dynamic testing system is designed and built in this paper, in which 406.7nm blue laser is used for recording and 655nm red laser for focus servo. With high modularization, the computer serves as the control core for the laser external modulation, focus servo, and sample plate spinning. Each module and its function are discussed in detail in the paper. Experimental results are also given to verify the stable and smooth performance of the system, in which the key obstacle, vibration noise, is successfully surmounted.

  15. Fundamental limit of nanophotonic light trapping in solar cells.

    PubMed

    Yu, Zongfu; Raman, Aaswath; Fan, Shanhui

    2010-10-12

    Establishing the fundamental limit of nanophotonic light-trapping schemes is of paramount importance and is becoming increasingly urgent for current solar cell research. The standard theory of light trapping demonstrated that absorption enhancement in a medium cannot exceed a factor of 4n(2)/sin(2)θ, where n is the refractive index of the active layer, and θ is the angle of the emission cone in the medium surrounding the cell. This theory, however, is not applicable in the nanophotonic regime. Here we develop a statistical temporal coupled-mode theory of light trapping based on a rigorous electromagnetic approach. Our theory reveals that the conventional limit can be substantially surpassed when optical modes exhibit deep-subwavelength-scale field confinement, opening new avenues for highly efficient next-generation solar cells.

  16. Multispectral optical tweezers for molecular diagnostics of single biological cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Butler, Corey; Fardad, Shima; Sincore, Alex; Vangheluwe, Marie; Baudelet, Matthieu; Richardson, Martin

    2012-03-01

    Optical trapping of single biological cells has become an established technique for controlling and studying fundamental behavior of single cells with their environment without having "many-body" interference. The development of such an instrument for optical diagnostics (including Raman and fluorescence for molecular diagnostics) via laser spectroscopy with either the "trapping" beam or secondary beams is still in progress. This paper shows the development of modular multi-spectral imaging optical tweezers combining Raman and Fluorescence diagnostics of biological cells.

  17. Enhanced magneto-optical Kerr effect at Fe/insulator interfaces

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gu, Bo; Takahashi, Saburo; Maekawa, Sadamichi

    2017-12-01

    Using density functional theory calculations, we have found an enhanced magneto-optical Kerr effect in Fe/insulator interfaces. The results of our study indicate that interfacial Fe atoms in the Fe films have a low-dimensional nature, which causes the following two effects: (i) The diagonal component σx x of the optical conductivity decreases dramatically because the hopping integral for electrons between Fe atoms is suppressed by the low dimensionality. (ii) The off-diagonal component σx y of the optical conductivity does not change at low photon energies, but it is enhanced at photon energies around 2 eV, where we obtain enhanced orbital magnetic moments and spin-orbit correlations for the interfacial Fe atoms. A large Kerr angle develops in proportion to the ratio σx y/σx x . Our findings indicate an efficient way to enhance the effect of spin-orbit coupling at metal/insulator interfaces without using heavy elements.

  18. Magnetic, Optical and Magneto-optical Properties of Ni2MnGe Alloy Films

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kim, R. J.; Kudryavtsev, Y. V.; Kim, K. W.

    2005-03-01

    The influence of atomic ordering on the magnetic, the optical and the magneto-optical (MO) properties of Ni2MnGe Heusler alloy (HA) films was investigated. The bulk Ni2MnGe HA was prepared by arc melting, and the films were deposited by flash evaporation onto glass substrates at several substrate temperatures from 150 to 730 K. The bulk Ni2MnGe HA exhibits the cubic L21 structure with a = b = c = 0.5761 nm, and the annealed (at 573 K) bulk alloy is in the tetragonal structure with a = b = 0.5720 nm and c = 0.5865 nm. While the films deposited at 720 K show a well-ordered L21 structure, the deposition at 150 K < T < 710 K results in the formation of a nanocrystalline or an amorphous microstructure. It was found the structural disorder in Ni2MnGe films induces lack of the ferromagnetic order and noticeable changes in the optical and MO response.

  19. Monolayer optical memory cells based on artificial trap-mediated charge storage and release

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lee, Juwon; Pak, Sangyeon; Lee, Young-Woo; Cho, Yuljae; Hong, John; Giraud, Paul; Shin, Hyeon Suk; Morris, Stephen M.; Sohn, Jung Inn; Cha, Seungnam; Kim, Jong Min

    2017-03-01

    Monolayer transition metal dichalcogenides are considered to be promising candidates for flexible and transparent optoelectronics applications due to their direct bandgap and strong light-matter interactions. Although several monolayer-based photodetectors have been demonstrated, single-layered optical memory devices suitable for high-quality image sensing have received little attention. Here we report a concept for monolayer MoS2 optoelectronic memory devices using artificially-structured charge trap layers through the functionalization of the monolayer/dielectric interfaces, leading to localized electronic states that serve as a basis for electrically-induced charge trapping and optically-mediated charge release. Our devices exhibit excellent photo-responsive memory characteristics with a large linear dynamic range of ~4,700 (73.4 dB) coupled with a low OFF-state current (<4 pA), and a long storage lifetime of over 104 s. In addition, the multi-level detection of up to 8 optical states is successfully demonstrated. These results represent a significant step toward the development of future monolayer optoelectronic memory devices.

  20. User oriented end-station on VUV pump-probe magneto-optical ellipsometry at ELI beamlines

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Espinoza, Shirly; Neuber, Gerd; Brooks, Christopher D.; Besner, Bastian; Hashemi, Maryam; Rübhausen, Michael; Andreasson, Jakob

    2017-11-01

    A state of the art ellipsometer for user operations is being implemented at ELI Beamlines in Prague, Czech Republic. It combines three of the most promising and exotic forms of ellipsometry: VUV, pump-probe and magneto-optical ellipsometry. This new ellipsometer covers a spectral operational range from the NIR up to the VUV, with high through-put between 1 and 40 eV. The ellipsometer also allows measurements of magneto-optical spectra with a 1 kHz switchable magnetic field of up to 1.5 T across the sample combining ellipsometry and Kerr spectroscopy measurements in an unprecedented spectral range. This form of generalized ellipsometry enables users to address diagonal and off-diagonal components of the dielectric tensor within one measurement. Pump-probe measurements enable users to study the dynamic behaviour of the dielectric tensor in order to resolve the time-domain phenomena in the femto to 100 ns range.

  1. The construction and characterization of optical traps for manipulating microscopic particles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Thompson, Tiffany; Behringer, Ernest

    2011-04-01

    Optical traps use tightly focused laser light to manipulate microscopic particles and have applications in nanofabrication, characterizing DNA, and in vitro fertilization [1]. We will describe the design, construction, and characterization of an optical trap that is capable of trapping and imaging 3 μm polystyrene spheres using a 12 mW HeNe laser. The design was based on previous work [2,3] describing how to build affordable optical traps. We will discuss trapping forces and their calibration. [4pt] [1] D.G. Grier, "A Revolution in Optical Manipulation," Nature 424, 810-816 (2003). [0pt] [2] S.P. Smith et al., "Inexpensive optical tweezers for undergraduate laboratories," Am. J. Phys. 67 (1), 26-35 (1999).[0pt] [3] J. Bechhoefer et al., "Faster, cheaper, safer optical tweezers for the undergraduate laboratory," Am. J. Phys. 70 (4), 393-400 (2001).

  2. Optical Trap Kits: Issues to Be Aware of

    ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

    Alexeev, I.; Quentin, U.; Leitz, K. -H.; Schmidt, M.

    2012-01-01

    An inexpensive and robust optical trap system can be built from off-the-shelf optical and opto-mechanical components or acquired as a kit to be assembled in a laboratory. The primary advantages of such a trap, besides being significantly more affordable, are its flexibility, and ease of modification and upgrade. In this paper, we consider several…

  3. Quantum memory with optically trapped atoms.

    PubMed

    Chuu, Chih-Sung; Strassel, Thorsten; Zhao, Bo; Koch, Markus; Chen, Yu-Ao; Chen, Shuai; Yuan, Zhen-Sheng; Schmiedmayer, Jörg; Pan, Jian-Wei

    2008-09-19

    We report the experimental demonstration of quantum memory for collective atomic states in a far-detuned optical dipole trap. Generation of the collective atomic state is heralded by the detection of a Raman scattered photon and accompanied by storage in the ensemble of atoms. The optical dipole trap provides confinement for the atoms during the quantum storage while retaining the atomic coherence. We probe the quantum storage by cross correlation of the photon pair arising from the Raman scattering and the retrieval of the atomic state stored in the memory. Nonclassical correlations are observed for storage times up to 60 mus.

  4. Effects of coating on the optical trapping efficiency of microspheres via geometrical optics approximation.

    PubMed

    Park, Bum Jun; Furst, Eric M

    2014-09-23

    We present the optical trapping forces that are generated when a single laser beam strongly focuses on a coated dielectric microsphere. On the basis of geometrical optics approximation (GOA), in which a particle intercepts all of the rays that make up a single laser beam, we calculate the trapping forces with varying coating thickness and refractive index values. To increase the optical trapping efficiency, the refractive index (n(b)) of the coating is selected such that n(a) < n(b) < n(c), where na and nc are the refractive indices of the medium and the core material, respectively. The thickness of the coating also increases trapping efficiency. Importantly, we find that trapping forces for the coated particles are predominantly determined by two rays: the incident ray and the first refracted ray to the medium.

  5. Normal and system lupus erythematosus red blood cell interactions studied by double trap optical tweezers: direct measurements of aggregation forces

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Khokhlova, Maria D.; Lyubin, Eugeny V.; Zhdanov, Alexander G.; Rykova, Sophia Yu.; Sokolova, Irina A.; Fedyanin, Andrey A.

    2012-02-01

    Direct measurements of aggregation forces in piconewton range between two red blood cells in pair rouleau are performed under physiological conditions using double trap optical tweezers. Aggregation and disaggregation properties of healthy and pathologic (system lupus erythematosis) blood samples are analyzed. Strong difference in aggregation speed and behavior is revealed using the offered method which is proposed to be a promising tool for SLE monitoring at single cell level.

  6. Silicon-on-insulator multimode-interference waveguide-based arrayed optical tweezers (SMART) for two-dimensional microparticle trapping and manipulation.

    PubMed

    Lei, Ting; Poon, Andrew W

    2013-01-28

    We demonstrate two-dimensional optical trapping and manipulation of 1 μm and 2.2 μm polystyrene particles in an 18 μm-thick fluidic cell at a wavelength of 1565 nm using the recently proposed Silicon-on-insulator Multimode-interference (MMI) waveguide-based ARrayed optical Tweezers (SMART) technique. The key component is a 100 μm square-core silicon waveguide with mm length. By tuning the fiber-coupling position at the MMI waveguide input facet, we demonstrate various patterns of arrayed optical tweezers that enable optical trapping and manipulation of particles. We numerically simulate the physical mechanisms involved in the arrayed trap, including the optical force, the heat transfer and the thermal-induced microfluidic flow.

  7. Observation of the X-Ray Magneto-Optical Voigt Effect

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Mertins, H.-Ch.; Oppeneer, P. M.; Kunes, J.

    2001-07-23

    The existence of the x-ray magneto-optical Voigt effect is demonstrated. By means of polarization analysis the Voigt rotation and ellipticity of linearly polarized synchrotron radiation are measured at the Co L{sub 3} edge upon transmission through an amorphous Co film. The observed x-ray Voigt rotation is about 7.5{sup o}/{mu}m . On the basis of ab initio calculations it is shown that the x-ray Voigt effect follows sensitively the amount of spin polarization of the 2p core states. Therefore it provides a unique measure of the spin splitting of the core states.

  8. Sm and Y radiolabeled magnetic fluids: magnetic and magneto-optical characterization

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Aquino, R.; Gomes, J. A.; Tourinho, F. A.; Dubois, E.; Perzynski, R.; da Silva, G. J.; Depeyrot, J.

    2005-03-01

    We report on magnetic fluids based on samarium and ytrium-doped nanoparticles. The nanostructures chemical composition is checked and X-ray diffraction provides both their mean size and a structural characterization. Magnetization and magneto-optical birefringence results are presented and well agree with the pure maghemite behavior. Since these particles can become radioactive after neutron activation, they could therefore represent a new perspective for biomedical applications in the radiation therapy of cancer.

  9. Isotopic abundance in atom trap trace analysis

    DOEpatents

    Lu, Zheng-Tian; Hu, Shiu-Ming; Jiang, Wei; Mueller, Peter

    2014-03-18

    A method and system for detecting ratios and amounts of isotopes of noble gases. The method and system is constructed to be able to measure noble gas isotopes in water and ice, which helps reveal the geological age of the samples and understand their movements. The method and system uses a combination of a cooled discharge source, a beam collimator, a beam slower and magneto-optic trap with a laser to apply resonance frequency energy to the noble gas to be quenched and detected.

  10. Non-Intrusive Magneto-Optic Detecting System for Investigations of Air Switching Arcs

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zhang, Pengfei; Zhang, Guogang; Dong, Jinlong; Liu, Wanying; Geng, Yingsan

    2014-07-01

    In current investigations of electric arc plasmas, experiments based on modern testing technology play an important role. To enrich the testing methods and contribute to the understanding and grasping of the inherent mechanism of air switching arcs, in this paper, a non-intrusive detecting system is described that combines the magneto-optic imaging (MOI) technique with the solution to inverse electromagnetic problems. The detecting system works in a sequence of main steps as follows: MOI of the variation of the arc flux density over a plane, magnetic field information extracted from the magneto-optic (MO) images, arc current density distribution and spatial pattern reconstruction by inverting the resulting field data. Correspondingly, in the system, an MOI set-up is designed based on the Faraday effect and the polarization properties of light, and an intelligent inversion algorithm is proposed that involves simulated annealing (SA). Experiments were carried out for high current (2 kA RMS) discharge cases in a typical low-voltage switchgear. The results show that the MO detection system possesses the advantages of visualization, high resolution and response, and electrical insulation, which provides a novel diagnostics tool for further studies of the arc.

  11. Magneto-photo-acoustic imaging

    PubMed Central

    Qu, Min; Mallidi, Srivalleesha; Mehrmohammadi, Mohammad; Truby, Ryan; Homan, Kimberly; Joshi, Pratixa; Chen, Yun-Sheng; Sokolov, Konstantin; Emelianov, Stanislav

    2011-01-01

    Magneto-photo-acoustic imaging, a technique based on the synergy of magneto-motive ultrasound, photoacoustic and ultrasound imaging, is introduced. Hybrid nanoconstructs, liposomes encapsulating gold nanorods and iron oxide nanoparticles, were used as a dual-contrast agent for magneto-photo-acoustic imaging. Tissue-mimicking phantom and macrophage cells embedded in ex vivo porcine tissue were used to demonstrate that magneto-photo-acoustic imaging is capable of visualizing the location of cells or tissues labeled with dual-contrast nanoparticles with sufficient contrast, excellent contrast resolution and high spatial resolution in the context of the anatomical structure of the surrounding tissues. Therefore, magneto-photo-acoustic imaging is capable of identifying the nanoparticle-labeled pathological regions from the normal tissue, providing a promising platform to noninvasively diagnose and characterize pathologies. PMID:21339883

  12. Non-thermal optical excitation of terahertz-spin precession in a magneto-optical insulator

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Parchenko, Sergii; Maziewski, Andrzej; Stupakiewicz, Andrzej, E-mail: and@uwb.edu.pl

    2016-01-18

    We demonstrate non-thermal ultrafast laser excitation of spin precession with THz frequency in Gd-Bi-substituted iron garnet via the inverse Faraday effect. The modulation of THz precession by about 60 GHz below the compensation temperature of magnetic moment was observed. The THz frequency precession was caused by the exchange resonance between the Gd and Fe sublattices; we attributed the low-frequency modulation to dielectric resonance mode with a magnetic contribution. We demonstrate the possibility of polarization-sensitive control of spin precession under THz generation by laser pulses, helping to develop high-speed magneto-optical devices.

  13. Alternating stacking of ferromagnetic nanosheet and nanoparticle films: heteroassembly and magneto-optical Kerr effect

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jia, Baoping; Zhang, Wei; Liu, Hui; Lin, Bencai; Ding, Jianning

    2016-09-01

    Heterostructured multilayer films of two different nanocrystals have been successfully fabricated by layer-by-layer stacking of Ti0.8Co0.2O2 nanosheet and Fe3O4 nanoparticle films. UV-Vis spectroscopy and AFM observation confirmed the successful alternating deposition in the multilayer buildup process. The average thickness of both Ti0.8Co0.2O2 nanosheet and Fe3O4 nanoparticle layers was determined to be about 1.4-1.7 and 5 nm, which was in good agreement with TEM results. Magneto-optical Kerr effect measurements demonstrated that the heteroassemblies exhibit gigantic magnetic circular dichroism (MCD) (2 × 104 deg/cm) at 320-360 nm, deriving from strong interlayer [Co2+]t2g-[Fe3+]eg d-d charge transfer which was further confirmed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Their structure-dependent MCD showed high potential in rational design and construction of high-efficiency magneto-optical devices.

  14. Raman Spectroscopy of Optically Trapped Single Biological Micro-Particles

    PubMed Central

    Redding, Brandon; Schwab, Mark J.; Pan, Yong-le

    2015-01-01

    The combination of optical trapping with Raman spectroscopy provides a powerful method for the study, characterization, and identification of biological micro-particles. In essence, optical trapping helps to overcome the limitation imposed by the relative inefficiency of the Raman scattering process. This allows Raman spectroscopy to be applied to individual biological particles in air and in liquid, providing the potential for particle identification with high specificity, longitudinal studies of changes in particle composition, and characterization of the heterogeneity of individual particles in a population. In this review, we introduce the techniques used to integrate Raman spectroscopy with optical trapping in order to study individual biological particles in liquid and air. We then provide an overview of some of the most promising applications of this technique, highlighting the unique types of measurements enabled by the combination of Raman spectroscopy with optical trapping. Finally, we present a brief discussion of future research directions in the field. PMID:26247952

  15. Graphene-based organic-inorganic hybrids with optoelectronic and magneto-optic functions (Conference Presentation)

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lee, Kwang-Sup; Kim, Sung-Hyun; Jung, Juhyoung; Teng, Xue-Cheng; Prabhakaran, Prem

    2017-02-01

    Groups around the world are pursuing optoelctronic and magneto-optic properties of graphene-based materials since they hold a lot of promise for future technologies. Quantum dot (QD) decorated graphenic nanohybrids can be candidates for demonstrating energy transfer, while magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) on graphene give rise to interesting electronic phenomena like magneto-optical effects. Graphene containing MNPs are also good candidates for exploring quantum-hall effect. In medicine these materials have demonstrated applications in bioimaging, drug delivery, photothermal treatment and magnetic resonance imaging. A majority of groups working on QD or MNPs have focused on chemical functionalization methods for making graphene-MNP nanohybrids. We have developed a set of small molecule as well as polymeric ligands for noncovalent self-assembly of nanoparticles on graphene. The ligands contain pyrene as an anchor group for graphene and also thiol or dipamine as anchor groups for QD or MNPs. In this presentation we discuss the synthesis and characterization of these materials and outline some early results regarding exploratory device fabrication involving these materials.

  16. Optical trapping gold nanoparticles by a pulse laser

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Liu, XiaoYu; Wang, Feng

    2010-11-01

    Gold nanoparticles are widely employed in nanomaterials, nanobiotechnology and health care, but generally they are considered difficult to trap stably. Compared with the continuous laser which is popular to the optical trapping, pulse laser has a relatively larger power in its work pulse, which is useful for trap particles. So this paper comprehensively analyzes the forces (the radiation forces, the gravitation, and the Brownian motion) on the gold nanoparticles in the optical tweezers formed by a pulse laser, through building up a mathematical model. Finally gets the dependence relation between the characteristics of the pulse laser and that of the gold nanoparticles.

  17. Vapor Grown Perovskite Solar Cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Abdussamad Abbas, Hisham

    Perovskite solar cells has been the fastest growing solar cell material till date with verified efficiencies of over 22%. Most groups in the world focuses their research on solution based devices that has residual solvent in the material bulk. This work focuses extensively on the fabrication and properties of vapor based perovskite devices that is devoid of solvents. The initial part of my work focuses on the detailed fabrication of high efficiency consistent sequential vapor NIP devices made using P3HT as P-type Type II heterojunction. The sequential vapor devices experiences device anomalies like voltage evolution and IV hysteresis owing to charge trapping in TiO2. Hence, sequential PIN devices were fabricated using doped Type-II heterojunctions that had no device anomalies. The sequential PIN devices has processing restriction, as organic Type-II heterojunction materials cannot withstand high processing temperature, hence limiting device efficiency. Thereby bringing the need of co-evaporation for fabricating high efficiency consistent PIN devices, the approach has no-restriction on substrates and offers stoichiometric control. A comprehensive description of the fabrication, Co-evaporator setup and how to build it is described. The results of Co-evaporated devices clearly show that grain size, stoichiometry and doped transport layers are all critical for eliminating device anomalies and in fabricating high efficiency devices. Finally, Formamidinium based perovskite were fabricated using sequential approach. A thermal degradation study was conducted on Methyl Ammonium Vs. Formamidinium based perovskite films, Formamidinium based perovskites were found to be more stable. Lastly, inorganic films such as CdS and Nickel oxide were developed in this work.

  18. Single-beam, dark toroidal optical traps for cold atoms

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fatemi, Fredrik K.; Olson, Spencer E.; Bashkansky, Mark; Dutton, Zachary; Terraciano, Matthew

    2007-02-01

    We demonstrate the generation of single-beam dark toroidal optical intensity distributions, which are of interest for neutral atom storage and atom interferometry. We demonstrate experimentally and numerically optical potentials that contain a ring-shaped intensity minimum, bounded in all directions by higher intensity. We use a spatial light modulator to alter the phase of an incident laser beam, and analyze the resulting optical propagation characteristics. For small toroidal traps (< 50 μm diameter), we find an optimal superposition of Laguerre-Gaussian modes that allows the formation of single-beam toroidal traps. We generate larger toroidal bottle traps by focusing hollow beams with toroidal lenses imprinted onto the spatial light modulator.

  19. Optical trapping studies of acto-myosin motor proteins

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Farrow, Rachel E.; Rosenthal, Peter B.; Mashanov, Gregory I.; Holder, Anthony A.; Molloy, Justin E.

    2007-09-01

    Optical tweezers have been used extensively to measure the mechanical properties of individual biological molecules. Over the past 10-15 years optical trapping studies have revealed important information about the way in which motor proteins convert chemical energy to mechanical work. This paper focuses on studies of the acto-myosin motor system that is responsible for muscle contraction and a host of other cellular motilities. Myosin works by binding to filamentous actin, pulling and then releasing. Each cycle of interaction produces a few nanometres movement and a few piconewtons force. Individual interactions can be observed directly by holding an individual actin filament between two optically trapped microspheres and positioning it in the immediate vicinity of a single myosin motor. When the chemical fuel (adenosine triphosphate or ATP) is present the myosin undergoes repeated cycles of interaction with the actin filament producing square-wave like displacements and forces. Analysis of optical trapping data sets enables the size and timing of the molecular motions to be deduced.

  20. Trapping and assembling of particles and live cells on large-scale random gold nano-island substrates

    PubMed Central

    Kang, Zhiwen; Chen, Jiajie; Wu, Shu-Yuen; Chen, Kun; Kong, Siu-Kai; Yong, Ken-Tye; Ho, Ho-Pui

    2015-01-01

    We experimentally demonstrated the use of random plasmonic nano-islands for optical trapping and assembling of particles and live cells into highly organized pattern with low power density. The observed trapping effect is attributed to the net contribution due to near-field optical trapping force and long-range thermophoretic force, which overcomes the axial convective drag force, while the lateral convection pushes the target objects into the trapping zone. Our work provides a simple platform for on-chip optical manipulation of nano- and micro-sized objects, and may find applications in physical and life sciences. PMID:25928045

  1. Single and dual fiber nano-tip optical tweezers: trapping and analysis.

    PubMed

    Decombe, Jean-Baptiste; Huant, Serge; Fick, Jochen

    2013-12-16

    An original optical tweezers using one or two chemically etched fiber nano-tips is developed. We demonstrate optical trapping of 1 micrometer polystyrene spheres at optical powers down to 2 mW. Harmonic trap potentials were found in the case of dual fiber tweezers by analyzing the trapped particle position fluctuations. The trap stiffness was deduced using three different models. Consistent values of up to 1 fN/nm were found. The stiffness linearly decreases with decreasing light intensity and increasing fiber tip-to-tip distance.

  2. Objective-lens-free Fiber-based Position Detection with Nanometer Resolution in a Fiber Optical Trapping System.

    PubMed

    Ti, Chaoyang; Ho-Thanh, Minh-Tri; Wen, Qi; Liu, Yuxiang

    2017-10-13

    Position detection with high accuracy is crucial for force calibration of optical trapping systems. Most existing position detection methods require high-numerical-aperture objective lenses, which are bulky, expensive, and difficult to miniaturize. Here, we report an affordable objective-lens-free, fiber-based position detection scheme with 2 nm spatial resolution and 150 MHz bandwidth. This fiber based detection mechanism enables simultaneous trapping and force measurements in a compact fiber optical tweezers system. In addition, we achieved more reliable signal acquisition with less distortion compared with objective based position detection methods, thanks to the light guiding in optical fibers and small distance between the fiber tips and trapped particle. As a demonstration of the fiber based detection, we used the fiber optical tweezers to apply a force on a cell membrane and simultaneously measure the cellular response.

  3. Optical trapping and Raman spectroscopy of solid particles.

    PubMed

    Rkiouak, L; Tang, M J; Camp, J C J; McGregor, J; Watson, I M; Cox, R A; Kalberer, M; Ward, A D; Pope, F D

    2014-06-21

    The heterogeneous interactions of gas molecules on solid particles are crucial in many areas of science, engineering and technology. Such interactions play a critical role in atmospheric chemistry and in heterogeneous catalysis, a key technology in the energy and chemical industries. Investigating heterogeneous interactions upon single levitated particles can provide significant insight into these important processes. Various methodologies exist for levitating micron sized particles including: optical, electrical and acoustic techniques. Prior to this study, the optical levitation of solid micron scale particles has proved difficult to achieve over timescales relevant to the above applications. In this work, a new vertically configured counter propagating dual beam optical trap was optimized to levitate a range of solid particles in air. Silica (SiO2), α-alumina (Al2O3), titania (TiO2) and polystyrene were stably trapped with a high trapping efficiency (Q = 0.42). The longest stable trapping experiment was conducted continuously for 24 hours, and there are no obvious constraints on trapping time beyond this period. Therefore, the methodology described in this paper should be of major benefit to various research communities. The strength of the new technique is demonstrated by the simultaneous levitation and spectroscopic interrogation of silica particles by Raman spectroscopy. In particular, the adsorption of water upon silica was investigated under controlled relative humidity environments. Furthermore, the collision and coagulation behaviour of silica particles with microdroplets of sulphuric acid was followed using both optical imaging and Raman spectroscopy.

  4. Post passivation light trapping back contacts for silicon heterojunction solar cells.

    PubMed

    Smeets, M; Bittkau, K; Lentz, F; Richter, A; Ding, K; Carius, R; Rau, U; Paetzold, U W

    2016-11-10

    Light trapping in crystalline silicon (c-Si) solar cells is an essential building block for high efficiency solar cells targeting low material consumption and low costs. In this study, we present the successful implementation of highly efficient light-trapping back contacts, subsequent to the passivation of Si heterojunction solar cells. The back contacts are realized by texturing an amorphous silicon layer with a refractive index close to the one of crystalline silicon at the back side of the silicon wafer. As a result, decoupling of optically active and electrically active layers is introduced. In the long run, the presented concept has the potential to improve light trapping in monolithic Si multijunction solar cells as well as solar cell configurations where texturing of the Si absorber surfaces usually results in a deterioration of the electrical properties. As part of this study, different light-trapping textures were applied to prototype silicon heterojunction solar cells. The best path length enhancement factors, at high passivation quality, were obtained with light-trapping textures based on randomly distributed craters. Comparing a planar reference solar cell with an absorber thickness of 280 μm and additional anti-reflection coating, the short-circuit current density (J SC ) improves for a similar solar cell with light-trapping back contact. Due to the light trapping back contact, the J SC is enhanced around 1.8 mA cm -2 to 38.5 mA cm -2 due to light trapping in the wavelength range between 1000 nm and 1150 nm.

  5. Role of photonic angular momentum states in nonreciprocal diffraction from magneto-optical cylinder arrays

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Guo, Tian-Jing; Wu, Li-Ting; Yang, Mu

    2014-07-15

    Optical eigenstates in a concentrically symmetric resonator are photonic angular momentum states (PAMSs) with quantized optical orbital angular momentums (OAMs). Nonreciprocal optical phenomena can be obtained if we lift the degeneracy of PAMSs. In this article, we provide a comprehensive study of nonreciprocal optical diffraction of various orders from a magneto-optical cylinder array. We show that nonreciprocal diffraction can be obtained only for these nonzero orders. Role of PAMSs, the excitation of which is sensitive to the directions of incidence, applied magnetic field, and arrangement of the cylinders, are studied. Some interesting phenomena such as a dispersionless quasi-omnidirectional nonreciprocal diffractionmore » and spikes associated with high-OAM PAMSs are present and discussed.« less

  6. Magneto-optic transmittance modulation observed in a hybrid graphene–split ring resonator terahertz metasurface

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Zanotto, Simone; Pitanti, Alessandro; Lange, Christoph

    2015-09-21

    By placing a material in close vicinity of a resonant optical element, its intrinsic optical response can be tuned, possibly to a wide extent. Here, we show that a graphene monolayer, spaced a few tenths of nanometers from a split ring resonator metasurface, exhibits a magneto-optical response which is strongly influenced by the presence of the metasurface itself. This hybrid system holds promises in view of thin optical modulators, polarization rotators, and nonreciprocal devices, in the technologically relevant terahertz spectral range. Moreover, it could be chosen as the playground for investigating the cavity electrodynamics of Dirac fermions in the quantummore » regime.« less

  7. Optical trapping and manipulation of neutral particles using lasers

    PubMed Central

    Ashkin, Arthur

    1997-01-01

    The techniques of optical trapping and manipulation of neutral particles by lasers provide unique means to control the dynamics of small particles. These new experimental methods have played a revolutionary role in areas of the physical and biological sciences. This paper reviews the early developments in the field leading to the demonstration of cooling and trapping of neutral atoms in atomic physics and to the first use of optical tweezers traps in biology. Some further major achievements of these rapidly developing methods also are considered. PMID:9144154

  8. Gold nanoparticles: enhanced optical trapping and sensitivity coupled with significant heating.

    PubMed

    Seol, Yeonee; Carpenter, Amanda E; Perkins, Thomas T

    2006-08-15

    Gold nanoparticles appear to be superior handles in optical trapping assays. We demonstrate that relatively large gold particles (R(b)=50 nm) indeed yield a sixfold enhancement in trapping efficiency and detection sensitivity as compared to similar-sized polystyrene particles. However, optical absorption by gold at the most common trapping wavelength (1064 nm) induces dramatic heating (266 degrees C/W). We determined this heating by comparing trap stiffness from three different methods in conjunction with detailed modeling. Due to this heating, gold nanoparticles are not useful for temperature-sensitive optical-trapping experiments, but may serve as local molecular heaters. Also, such particles, with their increased detection sensitivity, make excellent probes for certain zero-force biophysical assays.

  9. Magneto-Optical Relaxation Measurements of Functionalized Nanoparticles as a Novel Biosensor

    PubMed Central

    Aurich, Konstanze; Glöckl, Gunnar; Nagel, Stefan; Weitschies, Werner

    2009-01-01

    Measurements of magneto-optical relaxation signals of magnetic nanoparticles functionalized with biomolecules are a novel biosensing tool. Upon transmission of a laser beam through a nanoparticle suspension in a pulsed magnetic field, the properties of the laser beam change. This can be detected by optical methods. Biomolecular binding events leading to aggregation of nanoparticles are ascertainable by calculating the relaxation time and from this, the hydrodynamic diameters of the involved particles from the optical signal. Interaction between insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and its antibody was utilized for demonstration of the measurement setup applicability as an immunoassay. Furthermore, a formerly developed kinetic model was utilized in order to determine kinetic parameters of the interaction. Beside utilization of the method as an immunoassay it can be applied for the characterization of diverse magnetic nanoparticles regarding their size and size distribution. PMID:22408511

  10. Raman-Ramsey multizone spectroscopy in a pure rubidium vapor cell

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Failache, H.; Lenci, L.; Lezama, A.

    2010-02-15

    In view of application to a miniaturized spectroscopy system, we consider an optical setup that splits a laser beam into several parallel narrow light sheets allowing an effective beam expansion and consequently longer atom-light interaction times. We analyze the multizone coherent population trapping (MZCPT) spectroscopy of alkali-metal-vapor atoms, without buffer gas, in the presence of a split light beam. We show that the MZCPT signal is largely insensitive to intensity broadening. Experimentally observed spectra are in qualitative agreement with the predictions of a simplified model that describes each spectrum as an integral over the atomic velocity distribution of Ramsey multizonemore » spectra.« less

  11. Dynamics of trapped atoms around an optical nanofiber probed through polarimetry.

    PubMed

    Solano, Pablo; Fatemi, Fredrik K; Orozco, Luis A; Rolston, S L

    2017-06-15

    The evanescent field outside an optical nanofiber (ONF) can create optical traps for neutral atoms. We present a non-destructive method to characterize such trapping potentials. An off-resonance linearly polarized probe beam that propagates through the ONF experiences a slow axis of polarization produced by trapped atoms on opposite sides along the ONF. The transverse atomic motion is imprinted onto the probe polarization through the changing atomic index of refraction. By applying a transient impulse, we measure a time-dependent polarization rotation of the probe beam that provides both a rapid and non-destructive measurement of the optical trapping frequencies.

  12. TiO2 brookite nanostructured thin layer on magneto-optical surface plasmon resonance transductor for gas sensing applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Manera, M. G.; Colombelli, A.; Rella, R.; Caricato, A.; Cozzoli, P. D.; Martino, M.; Vasanelli, L.

    2012-09-01

    The sensing performance comparisons presented in this work were carried out by exploiting a suitable magneto-plasmonic sensor in both the traditional surface plasmon resonance configuration and the innovative magneto-optic surface plasmon resonance one. The particular multilayer transducer was functionalized with TiO2 Brookite nanorods layers deposited by matrix assisted pulsed laser evaporation, and its sensing capabilities were monitored in a controlled atmosphere towards different concentrations of volatile organic compounds mixed in dry air.

  13. Optical pulling force on a magneto-dielectric Rayleigh sphere in Bessel tractor polarized beams

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mitri, F. G.; Li, R. X.; Yang, R. P.; Guo, L. X.; Ding, C. Y.

    2016-11-01

    The optical radiation force induced by Bessel (vortex) beams on a magneto-dielectric subwavelength sphere is investigated with particular emphasis on the beam polarization and order l (or topological charge). The analysis is focused on identifying the regions and some of the conditions to achieve retrograde motion of the sphere centered on the axis of wave propagation of the incident beam, or shifted off-axially. Exact non-paraxial analytical solutions are established, and computations for linear, circular, radial, azimuthal and mixed polarizations of the individual plane wave components forming the Bessel (vortex) beams by means of the angular spectrum decomposition method (ASDM) illustrate the theory with particular emphasis on the tractor (i.e. reversal) behavior of the force. This effect results in the pulling of the magneto-dielectric sphere against the forward linear momentum density flux associated with the incoming waves. Should some conditions related to the choice of the beam parameters as well as the permittivity and permeability of the sphere be met, the optical force vanishes and reverses sign. Moreover, the beam polarization is shown to affect differently the axial negative pulling force for either the zeroth- or the first-order Bessel beam. When the sphere is centered on the beam‧s axis, the axial force component is always negative for the zeroth-order Bessel beam except for the radial and azimuthal polarization configurations. Nonetheless, for the first-order Bessel beam, the axial force is negative for the radial polarization case only. Additional tractor beam effects arise when the sphere departs from the center of the beam. It is also demonstrated that the tractor beam effect arises from the force component originating from the cross-interaction between the electric and magnetic dipoles. Potential applications are in particle manipulation, optical levitation, tractor beam tweezers, and other emergent technologies using polarized Bessel beams on

  14. Enhanced antibody recognition with a magneto-optic surface plasmon resonance (MO-SPR) sensor.

    PubMed

    Manera, Maria Grazia; Ferreiro-Vila, Elías; Garcia-Martin, José Miguel; Garcia-Martin, Antonio; Rella, Roberto

    2014-08-15

    A comparison between sensing performance of traditional SPR (Surface Plasmon Resonance) and magneto-optic SPR (MOSPR) transducing techniques is presented in this work. MOSPR comes from an evolution of traditional SPR platform aiming at modulating Surface Plasmon wave by the application of an external magnetic field in transverse configuration. Previous work demonstrated that, when the Plasmon resonance is excited in these structures, the external magnetic field induces a modification of the coupling of the incident light with the Surface Plasmon Polaritons (SPP). Besides, these structures can lead to an enhancement in the magneto-optical (MO) activity when the SPP is excited. This phenomenon is exploited in this work to demonstrate the possibility to use the enhanced MO signal as proper transducer signal for investigating biomolecular interactions in liquid phase. To this purpose, the transducer surface was functionalized by thiol chemistry and used for recording the binding between Bovine Serum Albumin molecules immobilized onto the surface and its complementary target. Higher sensing performance in terms of sensitivity and lower limit of detection of the MOSPR biosensor with respect to traditional SPR sensors is demonstrated. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  15. Non-Evaporative Cooling Using Spin-Exchange Collision in an Optical Trap

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2009-02-03

    transit time of the atoms across the optical trap should damp the atoms’ motion significantly. These processes are described in detail in Ref. [ 18]. The...potentials. Finally, since the optical trap was very shallow compared to a MOT, any light-assisted collision that resulted in almost any net acceleration...EXCHANGE COLLISION IN AN OPTICAL TRAP 5a. CONTRACT NUMBER FA9550-06-1-0190 5b. GRANT NUMBER 5c. PROGRAM ELEMENT NUMBER 6. AUTHOR(S

  16. A generalization of the Drude-Smith formula for magneto-optical conductivities in Faraday geometry

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Han, F. W.; University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei 230026; Xu, W., E-mail: wenxu-issp@aliyun.com

    2016-06-28

    In this study, we generalize the impulse response approach and Poisson statistics proposed by Smith [Phys. Rev. B 64, 155106 (2001)] to evaluate the longitudinal and transverse magneto-optical conductivities in an electron gas system in Faraday geometry. Comparing with the standard Drude model, the coefficients a{sub n} are introduced in the Drude-Smith formula to describe the backscattering or localization effect for the nth electronic scattering event. Such a formula can also be applied to study the elements of the dielectric function matrix in the presence of magnetic and radiation fields in electron gas systems. This theoretical work is primely motivatedmore » by recent experimental activities in measuring the real and imaginary parts of longitudinal and transverse magneto-optical conductivities in condensed matter materials and electronic devices using terahertz time-domain spectroscopy. We believe that the results obtained from this study can provide an appropriate theoretical tool in reproducing the experimental findings and in fitting with experimental data to determine the important sample and material parameters.« less

  17. Optical Sensor for Diverse Organic Vapors at ppm Concentration Ranges

    PubMed Central

    Thomas, J. Christopher; Trend, John E.; Rakow, Neal A.; Wendland, Michael S.; Poirier, Richard J.; Paolucci, Dora M.

    2011-01-01

    A broadly responsive optical organic vapor sensor is described that responds to low concentrations of organic vapors without significant interference from water vapor. Responses to several classes of organic vapors are highlighted, and trends within classes are presented. The relationship between molecular properties (vapor pressure, boiling point, polarizability, and refractive index) and sensor response are discussed. PMID:22163798

  18. Formation of contour optical traps using a four-channel liquid crystal focusing device

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Korobtsov, A V; Kotova, S P; Losevsky, N N

    2014-12-31

    The capabilities and specific features of the formation and dynamic control of so-called contour optical traps using a fourchannel liquid crystal modulator are studied theoretically and experimentally. Circular, elliptical and C-shaped traps are formed. Trapping and confinement of absorbing micro-objects by the formed traps are demonstrated. (optical traps)

  19. Fourier optics along a hybrid optical fiber for Bessel-like beam generation and its applications in multiple-particle trapping.

    PubMed

    Kim, Jongki; Jeong, Yoonseob; Lee, Sejin; Ha, Woosung; Shin, Jeon-Soo; Oh, Kyunghwan

    2012-02-15

    Highly efficient Bessel-like beam generation was achieved based on a new all-fiber method that implements Fourier transformation of a micro annular aperture along a concatenated composite optical fiber. The beam showed unique characteristics of tilted washboard optical potential in the transverse plane and sustained a nondiffracting length over 400 μm along the axial direction. Optical trapping of multiple dielectric particles and living Jurkat cells were successfully demonstrated along the axial direction of the beam in the water.

  20. High accuracy indirect optical manipulation of live cells with functionalized microtools

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Vizsnyiczai, Gaszton; Aekbote, Badri L.; Buzás, András.; Grexa, István.; Ormos, Pál.; Kelemen, Lóránd

    2016-09-01

    Optical micro manipulation of live cells has been extensively used to study a wide range of cellular phenomena with relevance in basic research or in diagnostics. The approaches span from manipulation of many cells for high throughput measurement or sorting, to more elaborated studies of intracellular events on trapped single cells when coupled with modern imaging techniques. In case of direct cell trapping the damaging effects of light-cell interaction must be minimized, for instance with the choice of proper laser wavelength. Microbeads have already been used for trapping cells indirectly thereby reducing the irradiation damage and increasing trapping efficiency with their high refractive index contrast. We show here that such intermediate objects can be tailor-made for indirect cell trapping to further increase cell-to-focal spot distance while maintaining their free and fast maneuverability. Carefully designed structures were produced with two-photon polymerization with shapes optimized for effective manipulation and cell attachment. Functionalization of the microstructures is also presented that enables cell attachment to them within a few seconds with strength much higher that the optical forces. Fast cell actuation in 6 degrees of freedom is demonstrated with the outlook to possible applications in cell imaging.

  1. Magneto-actuated immunoassay for the detection of Mycobacterium fortuitum in hemodialysis water.

    PubMed

    Brugnera, Michelle Fernanda; Bundalian, Reynaldo; Laube, Tamara; Julián, Esther; Luquin, Marina; Zanoni, Maria Valnice Boldrin; Pividori, Maria Isabel

    2016-06-01

    This paper addresses a sensitive method for the detection of mycobacteria in hemodialysis water samples based on a magneto-actuated immunoassay with optical readout. In this approach, micro (2.8μm) sized magnetic particles were modified with an antibody against the lipoarabinomannan (LAM) located in the mycobacterial cell wall. The system relies on the immunocapturing of the mycobacteria with the tailored antiLAM magnetic particles to pre-concentrate the bacteria from the hemodialysis samples throughout an immunological reaction. The performance of the immunomagnetic separation on the magnetic carrier was evaluated using confocal microscopy to study the binding pattern, as well as a magneto-actuated immunoassay with optical readout for the rapid detection of the bacteria in spiked hemodialysis samples. In this approach, the antiLAM polyclonal antibody was labeled with fluorescein isothiocyanate. The optical readout was achieved by the incubation with a secondary anti-fluorescein antibody labeled with peroxidase as optical reporter. The magneto-actuated immunoassay was able to detect mycobacteria contamination in hemodialysis water at a limit of detection of 13CFUmL(-1) in a total assay time of 3h without any previous culturing pre-enrichment step. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

  2. Theoretical description of transverse measurements of polarization in optically-pumped Rb vapor cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Dreiling, Joan; Tupa, Dale; Norrgard, Eric; Gay, Timothy

    2012-06-01

    In optical pumping of alkali-metal vapors, the polarization of the atoms is typically determined by probing along the entire length of the pumping beam, resulting in an averaged value of polarization over the length of the cell. Such measurements do not give any information about spatial variations of the polarization along the pump beam axis. Using a D1 probe beam oriented perpendicular to the pumping beam, we have demonstrated a heuristic method for determining the polarization along the pump beam's axis. Adapting a previously developed theory [1], we provide an analysis of the experiment which explains why this method works. The model includes the effects of Rb density, buffer gas pressure, and pump detuning. [4pt] [1] E.B. Norrgard, D. Tupa, J.M. Dreiling, and T.J. Gay, Phys. Rev. A 82, 033408 (2010).

  3. Vapor bubble generation around gold nano-particles and its application to damaging of cells

    PubMed Central

    Kitz, M.; Preisser, S.; Wetterwald, A.; Jaeger, M.; Thalmann, G. N.; Frenz, M.

    2011-01-01

    We investigated vapor bubbles generated upon irradiation of gold nanoparticles with nanosecond laser pulses. Bubble formation was studied both with optical and acoustic means on supported single gold nanoparticles and single nanoparticles in suspension. Formation thresholds determined at different wavelengths indicate a bubble formation efficiency increasing with the irradiation wavelength. Vapor bubble generation in Bac-1 cells containing accumulations of the same particles was also investigated at different wavelengths. Similarly, they showed an increasing cell damage efficiency for longer wavelengths. Vapor bubbles generated by single laser pulses were about half the cell size when inducing acute damage. PMID:21339875

  4. AMTEC vapor-vapor series connected cells

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Underwood, Mark L. (Inventor); Williams, Roger M. (Inventor); Ryan, Margaret A. (Inventor); Nakamura, Barbara J. (Inventor); Oconnor, Dennis E. (Inventor)

    1995-01-01

    An alkali metal thermoelectric converter (AMTEC) having a plurality of cells structurally connected in series to form a septum dividing a plenum into two chambers, and electrically connected in series, is provided with porous metal anodes and porous metal cathodes in the cells. The cells may be planar or annular, and in either case a metal alkali vapor at a high temperature is provided to the plenum through one chamber on one side of the wall and returned to a vapor boiler after condensation at a chamber on the other side of the wall in the plenum. If the cells are annular, a heating core may be placed along the axis of the stacked cells. This arrangement of series-connected cells allows efficient generation of power at high voltage and low current.

  5. Symmetry dependence of holograms for optical trapping

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Curtis, Jennifer E.; Schmitz, Christian H. J.; Spatz, Joachim P.

    2005-08-01

    No iterative algorithm is necessary to calculate holograms for most holographic optical trapping patterns. Instead, holograms may be produced by a simple extension of the prisms-and-lenses method. This formulaic approach yields the same diffraction efficiency as iterative algorithms for any asymmetric or symmetric but nonperiodic pattern of points while requiring less calculation time. A slight spatial disordering of periodic patterns significantly reduces intensity variations between the different traps without extra calculation costs. Eliminating laborious hologram calculations should greatly facilitate interactive holographic trapping.

  6. Magneto-impedance based detection of magnetically labeled cancer cells and bio-proteins

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Devkota, J.; Howell, M.; Mohapatra, S.; Nhung, T. H.; Mukherjee, P.; Srikanth, H.; Phan, M. H.

    2015-03-01

    A magnetic biosensor with enhanced sensitivity and immobilized magnetic markers is essential for a reliable analysis of the presence of a biological entity in a fluid. Based on conventional approaches, however, it is quite challenging to create such a sensor. We report on a novel magnetic biosensor using the magneto-impedance (MI) effect of a Co-based amorphous ribbon with a microhole-patterned surface that fulfils these requirements. The sensor probe was fabricated by patterning four microholes, each of diameter 2 μm and depth 2 μm, on the ribbon surface using FIB lithography. The magnetically labeled Luis Lung Carcinoma (LLC) cancer cells and Bovine serum albumin (BSA) proteins were drop-casted on the ribbon surface, and MI was measured over 0.1 - 10 MHz frequency range. As the analytes were trapped into the microholes, their physical motion was minimized and interaction among the magnetic fields was strengthened, thus yielding a more reliable and sensitive detection of the biological entities. The presence of magnetically labeled LLC cells (8.25x105 cells/ml, 10 μl) and BSA proteins (2x1011 particles/ml, 10 μl) were found to result in a ~ 2% change in MI with respect to the reference signal.

  7. Coherent Population Trapping and Optical Ramsey Interference for Compact Rubidium Clock Development

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Warren, Zachary Aron

    Coherent population trapping (CPT) and optical Ramsey interference provide new avenues for developing compact, high-performance atomic clocks. In this work, I have studied the fundamental aspects of CPT and optical Ramsey interference for Raman clock development. This thesis research is composed of two parts: theoretical and experimental studies. The theoretical component of the research was initially based on pre-existing atomic models of a three-level ?-type system in which the phenomena of CPT and Ramsey interference are formed. This model served as a starting point for studying basic characteristics of CPT and Ramsey interference such as power dependence of CPT, effects of average detuning, and ground-state decoherence on linewidth, which directly impact the performance of the Raman clock. The basic three-level model was also used to model pulsed CPT excitation and measure light shift in Ramsey interference which imposes a fundamental limit on the long-term frequency stability of the Raman clock. The theoretical calculations illustrate reduction (or suppression) of light shift in Ramsey interference as an important advantage over CPT for Raman clock development. To make the model more accurate than an ideal three-level system, I developed a comprehensive atomic model using density-matrix equations including all sixteen Zeeman sublevels in the D1 manifold of 87Rb atoms in a vapor medium. The multi-level atomic model has been used for investigating characteristics of CPT and Ramsey interference under different optical excitation schemes pertaining to the polarization states of the frequency-modulated CPT beam in a Raman clock. It is also used to study the effects of axial and traverse magnetic fields on the contrast of CPT and Ramsey interference. More importantly, the multi-level atomic model is also used to accurately calculate light shift in Ramsey interference in the D1 manifold of 87Rb atoms by taking into account all possible off-resonant excitations and

  8. Optical levitation particle delivery system for a dual beam fiber optic trap.

    PubMed

    Gauthier, R C; Frangioudakis, A

    2000-01-01

    We combine a radiation-pressure-based levitation system with a dual fiber, laser trapping system to demonstrate the potential of delivering single particles into the fiber trap. The forces versus position and the trajectory of the particle subjected to the laser beams are examined with an enhanced ray optics model. A sequence of video images taken from the experimental apparatus demonstrates the principle of particle delivery, trapping, and further manipulation.

  9. Micro particle launcher/cleaner based on optical trapping technology.

    PubMed

    Liu, Zhihai; Liang, Peibo; Zhang, Yu; Zhang, Yaxun; Zhao, Enming; Yang, Jun; Yuan, Libo

    2015-04-06

    Efficient and controllable launching function of an optical tweezers is a challenging task. We present and demonstrate a novel single fiber optical tweezers which can trap and launch (clean) a target polystyrene (PS) microsphere (diameter~10μm) with independent control by using two wavelengths beams: 980nm and 1480nm. We employ 980nm laser beam to trap the target PS microsphere by molding the fiber tip into a special tapered-shape; and we employ 1480nm laser beam to launch the trapped PS microsphere with a certain velocity by using the thermophoresis force generated from the thermal effect due to the high absorption of the 1480nm laser beams in water. When the launching force is smaller than the trapping force, the PS microsphere will be trapped near the fiber tip, and the launching force will blow away other PS microspheres in the workspace realizing the cleaning function; When the launching force is larger than the trapping force, the trapped PS microsphere will be launched away from the fiber tip with a certain velocity and towards a certain direction, realizing the launching function. The launching velocity, acceleration and the distance can be measured by detecting the interference signals generated from the PS microsphere surface and the fiber tip end-face. This PS microsphere launching and cleaning functions expanded new features of single fiber optical tweezers, providing for the possibility of more practical applications in the micro manipulation research fields.

  10. Characterization of atomic spin polarization lifetime of cesium vapor cells with neon buffer gas

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lou, Janet W.; Cranch, Geoffrey A.

    2018-02-01

    The dephasing time of spin-polarized atoms in an atomic vapor cell plays an important role in determining the stability of vapor-cell clocks as well as the sensitivity of optically-pumped magnetometers. The presence of a buffer gas can extend the lifetime of these atoms. Many vapor cell systems operate at a fixed (often elevated) temperature. For ambient temperature operation with no temperature control, it is necessary to characterize the temperature dependence as well. We present a spin-polarization lifetime study of Cesium vapor cells with different buffer gas pressures, and find good agreement with expectations based on the combined effects of wall collisions, spin exchange, and spin destruction. For our (7.5 mm diameter) vapor cells, the lifetime can be increased by two orders of magnitude by introducing Ne buffer gas up to 100 Torr. Additionally, the dependence of the lifetime on temperature is measured (25 - 47 oC) and simulated for the first time to our knowledge with reasonable agreement.

  11. Magneto-Plasmonics and Resonant Interaction of Light with Dynamic Magnetisation in Metallic and All-Magneto-Dielectric Nanostructures

    PubMed Central

    Maksymov, Ivan S.

    2015-01-01

    A significant interest in combining plasmonics and magnetism at the nanoscale gains momentum in both photonics and magnetism sectors that are concerned with the resonant enhancement of light-magnetic-matter interaction in nanostructures. These efforts result in a considerable amount of literature, which is difficult to collect and digest in limited time. Furthermore, there is insufficient exchange of results between the two research sectors. Consequently, the goal of this review paper is to bridge this gap by presenting an overview of recent progress in the field of magneto-plasmonics from two different points of view: magneto-plasmonics, and magnonics and magnetisation dynamics. It is expected that this presentation style will make this review paper of particular interest to both general physical audience and specialists conducting research on photonics, plasmonics, Brillouin light scattering spectroscopy of magnetic nanostructures and magneto-optical Kerr effect magnetometry, as well as ultrafast all-optical and THz-wave excitation of spin waves. Moreover, readers interested in a new, rapidly emerging field of all-dielectric nanophotonics will find a section about all-magneto-dielectric nanostructures. PMID:28347027

  12. Magneto-Plasmonics and Resonant Interaction of Light with Dynamic Magnetisation in Metallic and All-Magneto-Dielectric Nanostructures.

    PubMed

    Maksymov, Ivan S

    2015-04-09

    A significant interest in combining plasmonics and magnetism at the nanoscale gains momentum in both photonics and magnetism sectors that are concerned with the resonant enhancement of light-magnetic-matter interaction in nanostructures. These efforts result in a considerable amount of literature, which is difficult to collect and digest in limited time. Furthermore, there is insufficient exchange of results between the two research sectors. Consequently, the goal of this review paper is to bridge this gap by presenting an overview of recent progress in the field of magneto-plasmonics from two different points of view: magneto-plasmonics, and magnonics and magnetisation dynamics. It is expected that this presentation style will make this review paper of particular interest to both general physical audience and specialists conducting research on photonics, plasmonics, Brillouin light scattering spectroscopy of magnetic nanostructures and magneto-optical Kerr effect magnetometry, as well as ultrafast all-optical and THz-wave excitation of spin waves. Moreover, readers interested in a new, rapidly emerging field of all-dielectric nanophotonics will find a section about all-magneto-dielectric nanostructures.

  13. Introduction: Optical trapping and applications feature issue

    PubMed Central

    López-Mariscal, Carlos; McGloin, David

    2013-01-01

    The editors introduce the Biomedical Optics Express feature issue on “Optical Trapping and Applications.” The works presented in the papers within this issue include were the focus of the third OTA Topical Meeting that was held on April 14–18, 2013, in Waikoloa, Hawaii. PMID:24298428

  14. Fabrication and characterization of Bismuth-Cerium composite iron garnet epitaxial films for magneto optical applications

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Chandra Sekhar, M.; Singh, Mahi R.

    2012-10-01

    The BixCe3-xFe5O12 (x = 0.8) epitaxial films of high quality were grown by means of pulsed laser deposition on paramagnetic substrates of Gadolinium Gallium Garnet. We study the modifications of substitutions in the parent garnet Y3Fe5O12 that produces a higher magneto-optical response at communication wavelengths. These films displayed a strong in plane textures which are treated in argon as well as reduced atmosphere conditions. The elemental constituents of these films were confirmed by energy dispersive-X ray analysis, elastic recoil detection system, Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements. The transmittance spectra were measured and found these films exhibit good transmittance values. The transmittance-spectra were fitted with the theoretical model and the optical constants such as refractive index and absorption edge were evaluated. The highest (negative) Faraday rotation was found for these films treated in the environment of Ar + H2. A density matrix theory has been developed for the Faraday rotation and a good agreement between the theory and experiment is found. These epitaxial garnet films can be used in a wide range of frequencies from visible to infrared spectra making them ideal for many magneto optical applications. Therefore, these films may overcome many issues in fabricating all optical isolators which is the viable solution for integrated photonics.

  15. Pulsed magneto-motive ultrasound imaging to detect intracellular trafficking of magnetic nanoparticles

    PubMed Central

    Mehrmohamamdi, Mohammad; Qu, Min; Ma, Li L.; Romanovicz, Dwight K.; Johnston, Keith P.; Sokolov, Konstantin V.; Emelianov, Stanislav Y.

    2012-01-01

    As applications of nanoparticles in medical imaging and biomedicine rapidly expand, the interactions of nanoparticles with living cells have become an area of active interest. For example, intracellular trafficking of nanoparticles – an important part of cell-nanoparticle interaction, has been well studied using plasmonic nanoparticles and optical or optics-based techniques due to the change in optical properties of the nanoparticle aggregates. However, magnetic nanoparticles, despite their wide range of clinical applications, do not exhibit plasmonic-resonant properties and therefore their intracellular aggregation cannot be detected by optics-based imaging techniques. In this study, we investigated the feasibility of a novel imaging technique – pulsed magneto-motive ultrasound (pMMUS), to identify intracellular trafficking of endocytosed magnetic nanoparticles. In pulsed magneto-motive ultrasound imaging a focused, high intensity, pulsed magnetic field is used to excite the cells labeled with magnetic nanoparticles, and ultrasound imaging is then used to monitor the mechanical response of the tissue. We demonstrated previously that clusters of magnetic nanoparticles amplify the pMMUS signal in comparison to signal from individual nanoparticles. Here we further demonstrate that pMMUS imaging can identify interaction between magnetic nanoparticles and living cells, i.e. intracellular aggregation of nanoparticles within the cells. The results of our study suggest that pMMUS imaging can not only detect the presence of magnetic nanoparticles but also provides information about their intracellular trafficking non-invasively and in real-time. PMID:21926454

  16. Vapor and liquid optical monitoring with sculptured Bragg microcavities

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Oliva-Ramirez, Manuel; Gil-Rostra, Jorge; López-Santos, Maria Carmen; González-Elipe, Agustín R.; Yubero, Francisco

    2017-10-01

    Sculptured porous Bragg microcavities (BMs) formed by the successive stacking of columnar SiO2 and TiO2 thin films with a zig-zag columnar microstructure are prepared by glancing angle deposition. These BMs act as wavelength-dependent optical retarders. This optical behavior is attributed to a self-structuration of the stacked layers involving the lateral association of nanocolumns in the direction perpendicular to the main flux of particles during the multilayer film growth, as observed by focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy. The retardance of these optically active BMs can be modulated by dynamic infiltration of their open porosity with vapors, liquids, or solutions with different refractive indices. The tunable birefringence of these nanostructured photonic systems has been successfully simulated with a simple model that assumes that each layer within the BMs stack has uniaxial birefringence. The sculptured BMs have been incorporated as microfluidic chips for optical transduction for label-free vapor and liquid sensing. Several examples of the detection performance of these chips, working either in reflection or transmission configuration, for the optical monitoring of vapor and liquids of different refractive indices and aqueous solutions of glucose flowing through the microfluidic chips are described.

  17. Minimum-variance Brownian motion control of an optically trapped probe.

    PubMed

    Huang, Yanan; Zhang, Zhipeng; Menq, Chia-Hsiang

    2009-10-20

    This paper presents a theoretical and experimental investigation of the Brownian motion control of an optically trapped probe. The Langevin equation is employed to describe the motion of the probe experiencing random thermal force and optical trapping force. Since active feedback control is applied to suppress the probe's Brownian motion, actuator dynamics and measurement delay are included in the equation. The equation of motion is simplified to a first-order linear differential equation and transformed to a discrete model for the purpose of controller design and data analysis. The derived model is experimentally verified by comparing the model prediction to the measured response of a 1.87 microm trapped probe subject to proportional control. It is then employed to design the optimal controller that minimizes the variance of the probe's Brownian motion. Theoretical analysis is derived to evaluate the control performance of a specific optical trap. Both experiment and simulation are used to validate the design as well as theoretical analysis, and to illustrate the performance envelope of the active control. Moreover, adaptive minimum variance control is implemented to maintain the optimal performance in the case in which the system is time varying when operating the actively controlled optical trap in a complex environment.

  18. All-optical patterning of Au nanoparticles on surfaces using optical traps.

    PubMed

    Guffey, Mason J; Scherer, Norbert F

    2010-11-10

    The fabrication of nanoscale devices would be greatly enhanced by "nanomanipulators" that can position single and few objects rapidly with nanometer precision and without mechanical damage. Here, we demonstrate the feasibility and precision of an optical laser tweezer, or optical trap, approach to place single gold (Au) nanoparticles on surfaces with high precision (approximately 100 nm standard deviation). The error in the deposition process is rather small but is determined to be larger than the thermal fluctuations of single nanoparticles within the optical trap. Furthermore, areas of tens of square micrometers could be patterned in a matter of minutes. Since the method does not rely on lithography, scanning probes or a specialized surface, it is versatile and compatible with a variety of systems. We discuss active feedback methods to improve positioning accuracy and the potential for multiplexing and automation.

  19. Magneto-optical absorption in semiconducting spherical quantum dots: Influence of the dot-size, confining potential, and magnetic field

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Kushwaha, Manvir S.

    2014-12-15

    Semiconducting quantum dots – more fancifully dubbed artificial atoms – are quasi-zero dimensional, tiny, man-made systems with charge carriers completely confined in all three dimensions. The scientific quest behind the synthesis of quantum dots is to create and control future electronic and optical nanostructures engineered through tailoring size, shape, and composition. The complete confinement – or the lack of any degree of freedom for the electrons (and/or holes) – in quantum dots limits the exploration of spatially localized elementary excitations such as plasmons to direct rather than reciprocal space. Here we embark on a thorough investigation of the magneto-optical absorptionmore » in semiconducting spherical quantum dots characterized by a confining harmonic potential and an applied magnetic field in the symmetric gauge. This is done within the framework of Bohm-Pines’ random-phase approximation that enables us to derive and discuss the full Dyson equation that takes proper account of the Coulomb interactions. As an application of our theoretical strategy, we compute various single-particle and many-particle phenomena such as the Fock-Darwin spectrum; Fermi energy; magneto-optical transitions; probability distribution; and the magneto-optical absorption in the quantum dots. It is observed that the role of an applied magnetic field on the absorption spectrum is comparable to that of a confining potential. Increasing (decreasing) the strength of the magnetic field or the confining potential is found to be analogous to shrinking (expanding) the size of the quantum dots: resulting into a blue (red) shift in the absorption spectrum. The Fermi energy diminishes with both increasing magnetic-field and dot-size; and exhibits saw-tooth-like oscillations at large values of field or dot-size. Unlike laterally confined quantum dots, both (upper and lower) magneto-optical transitions survive even in the extreme instances. However, the intra-Landau level

  20. Real time observation of the ultrasound stimulated disintegration of optically trapped microbubbles in proximity to biological cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Prentice, Paul; MacDonald, Michael P.; Cuschieri, Alfred; Dholakia, Kishan; Campbell, Paul

    2005-08-01

    Cells that are exposed to varying amounts of ultrasonic energy in the presence of ultrasound contrast agent (UCA) may undergo either permanent cell membrane damage (lethal sonoporation), or a transient enhancement of membrane permeability (reversible or non lethal sonoporation). The merits of each mode are clear; lethal sonoporation constitutes a significant tumour therapy weapon, whilst its less intrusive counterpart, reversible sonoporation, represents an effective non-invasive targeted drug delivery technique. Our working hypothesis for understanding this problem was that the root cause and effect in sonoporation involves the interaction of individual cells with single microbubbles, and to that end we devised an experiment that facilitates video rate observation of this specific scenario under well defined optical control. Specifically, we have constructed an innovative hybridization apparatus involving holographic optical trapping of single and multiple UCA microbubbles, together with the facility to irradiate with MHz pulsed ultrasound energy in the presence cancerous cells. This approach allows the isolation of a target microbubble from a resident population and the relocation to a [controllable] predetermined position relative to a cell within a monolayer. Frame extraction from standard framing rate video microscopy demonstrates the individuality of single microbubble-cell interactions. We describe a fluorescence microscopy protocol that will allow future study of the potential to deliver molecular species to cells, the dependence of the delivery on the initial microbubble-cell distance and to determine the targeted cell survival.

  1. A Minimal Optical Trapping and Imaging Microscopy System

    PubMed Central

    Hernández Candia, Carmen Noemí; Tafoya Martínez, Sara; Gutiérrez-Medina, Braulio

    2013-01-01

    We report the construction and testing of a simple and versatile optical trapping apparatus, suitable for visualizing individual microtubules (∼25 nm in diameter) and performing single-molecule studies, using a minimal set of components. This design is based on a conventional, inverted microscope, operating under plain bright field illumination. A single laser beam enables standard optical trapping and the measurement of molecular displacements and forces, whereas digital image processing affords real-time sample visualization with reduced noise and enhanced contrast. We have tested our trapping and imaging instrument by measuring the persistence length of individual double-stranded DNA molecules, and by following the stepping of single kinesin motor proteins along clearly imaged microtubules. The approach presented here provides a straightforward alternative for studies of biomaterials and individual biomolecules. PMID:23451216

  2. Vapor and liquid optical monitoring with sculptured Bragg microcavities

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Oliva-Ramirez, Manuel; Gil-Rostra, Jorge; López-Santos, Maria C.; González-Elipe, Agustín. R.; Yubero, Francisco

    2017-08-01

    Sculptured porous Bragg Microcavities (BMs) formed by the successive stacking of columnar SiO2 and TiO2 thin films with zig-zag columnar microstructure are prepared by glancing angle deposition. These BMs act as wavelength dependent optical retarders. This optical behavior is attributed to a self-structuration mechanism involving a fence-bundling association of nanocolumns as observed by Focused Ion Beam Scanning Electron Microscopy. The retardance of these optically active BMs can be modulated by dynamic infiltration of their open porosity with vapors, liquids or solutions with different refractive indices. The tunable birefringence of these nanostructured photonic systems have been successfully simulated with a simple model that assumes that each layer within the BMs stack has uniaxial birefringence. This type of self-associated nanostructures has been incorporated to microfluidic chips for free label vapor and liquid sensing. Several examples of the detection performance of these chips, working either in reflection or transmission configuration, for the optical characterization of vapor and liquids of different refractive index and aqueous solutions of glucose flowing through the microfluidic chips are described.

  3. Independent polarisation control of multiple optical traps

    PubMed Central

    Preece, Daryl; Keen, Stephen; Botvinick, Elliot; Bowman, Richard; Padgett, Miles; Leach, Jonathan

    2009-01-01

    We present a system which uses a single spatial light modulator to control the spin angular momentum of multiple optical traps. These traps may be independently controlled both in terms of spatial location and in terms of their spin angular momentum content. The system relies on a spatial light modulator used in a “split-screen” configuration to generate beams of orthogonal polarisation states which are subsequently combined at a polarising beam splitter. Defining the phase difference between the beams with the spatial light modulator enables control of the polarisation state of the light. We demonstrate the functionality of the system by controlling the rotation and orientation of birefringent vaterite crystals within holographic optical tweezers. PMID:18825226

  4. Oxidation processes in magneto-optic and related materials

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Lee, Paul A.; Armstrong, Neal R.; Danzinger, James L.; England, Craig D.

    1992-01-01

    The surface oxidation processes of thin films of magneto-optic materials, such as the rare-earth transition metal alloys have been studied, starting in ultrahigh vacuum environments, using surface analysis techniques, as a way of modeling the oxidation processes which occur at the base of a defect in an overcoated material, at the instant of exposure to ambient environments. Materials examined have included FeTbCo alloys, as well as those same materials with low percentages of added elements, such a Ta, and their reactivities to both O2 and H2O compared with materials such as thin Fe films coated with ultrathin adlayers of Ti. The surface oxidation pathways for these materials is reviewed, and XPS data presented which indicates the type of oxides formed, and a critical region of Ta concentration which provides optimum protection.

  5. Laser Cooling and Trapping of Neutral Strontium for Spectroscopic Measurements of Casimir-Polder Potentials

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cook, Eryn C.

    Casimir and Casimir-Polder effects are forces between electrically neutral bodies and particles in vacuum, arising entirely from quantum fluctuations. The modification to the vacuum electromagnetic-field modes imposed by the presence of any particle or surface can result in these mechanical forces, which are often the dominant interaction at small separations. These effects play an increasingly critical role in the operation of micro- and nano-mechanical systems as well as miniaturized atomic traps for precision sensors and quantum-information devices. Despite their fundamental importance, calculations present theoretical and numeric challenges, and precise atom-surface potential measurements are lacking in many geometric and distance regimes. The spectroscopic measurement of Casimir-Polder-induced energy level shifts in optical-lattice trapped atoms offers a new experimental method to probe atom-surface interactions. Strontium, the current front-runner among optical frequency metrology systems, has demonstrated characteristics ideal for such precision measurements. An alkaline earth atom possessing ultra-narrow intercombination transitions, strontium can be loaded into an optical lattice at the "magic" wavelength where the probe transition is unperturbed by the trap light. Translation of the lattice will permit controlled transport of tightly-confined atomic samples to well-calibrated atom-surface separations, while optical transition shifts serve as a direct probe of the Casimir-Polder potential. We have constructed a strontium magneto-optical trap (MOT) for future Casimir-Polder experiments. This thesis will describe the strontium apparatus, initial trap performance, and some details of the proposed measurement procedure.

  6. Enhanced and selective optical trapping in a slot-graphite photonic crystal.

    PubMed

    Krishnan, Aravind; Huang, Ningfeng; Wu, Shao-Hua; Martínez, Luis Javier; Povinelli, Michelle L

    2016-10-03

    Applicability of optical trapping tools for nanomanipulation is limited by the available laser power and trap efficiency. We utilized the strong confinement of light in a slot-graphite photonic crystal to develop high-efficiency parallel trapping over a large area. The stiffness is 35 times higher than our previously demonstrated on-chip, near field traps. We demonstrate the ability to trap both dielectric and metallic particles of sub-micron size. We find that the growth kinetics of nanoparticle arrays on the slot-graphite template depends on particle size. This difference is exploited to selectively trap one type of particle out of a binary colloidal mixture, creating an efficient optical sieve. This technique has rich potential for analysis, diagnostics, and enrichment and sorting of microscopic entities.

  7. High-temperature multipass cell for infrared spectroscopy of heated gases and vapors.

    PubMed

    Bartlome, R; Baer, M; Sigrist, M W

    2007-01-01

    In absorption spectroscopy, infrared spectra of heated gases or condensed samples in the vapor phase are usually recorded with a single pass heated gas cell. This device exhibits two orders of magnitude lower sensitivity than the high-temperature multipass cell presented in this article. Our device is a novel type of compact long path absorption cell that can withstand aggressive chemicals in addition to temperatures up to 723 K. The construction of the cell and its technical features are described in detail, paying special attention to the mechanisms that compensate for thermal expansion and that allow the user to vary the optical path length under any thermal or vacuum condition. The cell may be used with a laser source or implemented within a Fourier transform infrared spectrometer. Its design is compatible with optical arrangements using astigmatic mirrors or spherical mirrors in a Herriott configuration. Here we implement a homebuilt Herriott-type cell with a total optical path length of up to 35 m. In order to demonstrate the feasibility of the cell, methane and water vapor absorption lines showing dissimilar temperature effects on line intensity were recorded with the help of a mid-infrared laser source tunable between 3 and 4 microm. Emphasis is put on lines that are too weak to be recorded with a single pass cell.

  8. Toolkit for the Automated Characterization of Optical Trapping Forces on Microscopic Particles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Glaser, Joseph; Hoeprich, David; Resnick, Andrew

    2014-03-01

    Optical traps have been in use in microbiological studies for the past 40 years to obtain noninvasive control of microscopic particles. However, the magnitude of the applied forces is often unknown. Therefore, we have developed an automated data acquisition and processing system which characterizes trap properties for known particle geometries. Extensive experiments and measurements utilizing well-characterized objects were performed and compared to literature to confirm the system's performance. This system will enable the future analysis of a trapped primary cilium, a slender rod-shaped organelle with aspect ratio L/R >30, where `L' is the cilium length and `R' the cilium diameter. The trapping of cilia is of primary importance, as it will lead to the precise measurements of mechanical properties of the organelle and its significance to the epithelial cell. Support from the National Institutes of Health, 1R15DK092716 is gratefully acknowledged.

  9. High data rate atom interferometric device

    DOEpatents

    Biedermann, Grant; McGuinness, Hayden James Evans; Rakholia, Akash

    2015-07-21

    A light-pulse atomic interferometry (LPAI) apparatus is provided. The LPAI apparatus comprises a vessel, two sets of magnetic coils configured to magnetically confine an atomic vapor in two respective magneto-optical traps (MOTs) within the vessel when activated, and an optical system configured to irradiate the atomic vapor within the vessel with laser radiation that, when suitably tuned, can launch atoms previously confined in each of the MOTs toward the other MOT. In embodiments, the magnetic coils are configured to produce a magnetic field that is non-zero at the midpoint between the traps. In embodiments, the time-of-flight of the launched atoms from one MOT to the other is 12 ms or less. In embodiments, the MOTs are situated approximately 36 mm apart. In embodiments, the apparatus is configured to activate the magnetic coils according to a particular temporal magnetic field gradient profile.

  10. An Investigation of Magneto-Optical Effects

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Adams, Mitzi L.; Hagyard, Mona J.; West, Edward A.

    1998-01-01

    We exhibit the effects of Faraday rotation on the direction of the transverse component of the magnetic field in a simple, symmetric sunspot. A set of 35 polarization filtergrams of NOAA active region 4662 (June 9, 1985) were obtained with the Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) vector magnetograph. These filtergrams measured the Stokes I, Q, U, and V intensities averaged over the instrument's filter bandpass (0.0125 nm) for wavelengths from 0.017 nm in the red wing to 0.017 nm in the blue wing of the Lambda525.22 nm spectral line in steps of 0.001 nm. These data were used to derive the azimuth phi of the vector field as a function of wavelength over the field of view of the sunspot. We interpret the observed variations of this azimuth with wavelength as the effects of Faraday rotation and verify this interpretation by comparing these variations with those predicted from magneto-optical theory. In the theoretical calculations we use the line-profile parameters and magnetic field strength derived in previous work by Balasubramaniam and West (Astrophys. J 382, p. 699, 1991).

  11. Design of Light Trapping Solar Cell System by Using Zemax Program

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hasan, A. B.; Husain, S. A.

    2018-05-01

    Square micro lenses array have been designed (by using Zemax optical design program) to concentrate solar radiation into variable slits that reaching light to solar cell. This technique to increase the efficiency of solar system by trapping light due to internal reflection of light by mirrors that placed between upper and lower side of solar cell, therefore increasing optical path through the solar cell, and then increasing chance of photon absorption. The results show priority of solar system that have slit of (0.2 mm), and acceptance angle of (20°) that give acceptable efficiency of solar system.

  12. Optical trapping using cascade conical refraction of light.

    PubMed

    O'Dwyer, D P; Ballantine, K E; Phelan, C F; Lunney, J G; Donegan, J F

    2012-09-10

    Cascade conical refraction occurs when a beam of light travels through two or more biaxial crystals arranged in series. The output beam can be altered by varying the relative azimuthal orientation of the two biaxial crystals. For two identical crystals, in general the output beam comprises a ring beam with a spot at its centre. The relative intensities of the spot and ring can be controlled by varying the azimuthal angle between the refracted cones formed in each crystal. We have used this beam arrangement to trap one microsphere within the central spot and a second microsphere on the ring. Using linearly polarized light, we can rotate the microsphere on the ring with respect to the central sphere. Finally, using a half wave-plate between the two crystals, we can create a unique beam profile that has two intensity peaks on the ring, and thereby trap two microspheres on diametrically opposite points on the ring and rotate them around the central sphere. Such a versatile optical trap should find application in optical trapping setups.

  13. Vacuum Arc Vapor Deposition Method and Apparatus for Applying Identification Symbols to Substrates

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Schramm, Harry F. (Inventor); Roxby, Donald L. (Inventor); Weeks, Jack L. (Inventor)

    2002-01-01

    An apparatus for applying permanent markings onto products using a Vacuum Arc Vapor Deposition (VAVD) marker by accelerating atoms or molecules from a vaporization source onto a substrate to form human and/or machine-readable part identification marking that can be detected optically or via a sensing device like x-ray, thermal imaging, ultrasound, magneto-optic, micro-power impulse radar, capacitance, or other similar sensing means. The apparatus includes a housing with a nozzle having a marking end. A chamber having an electrode, a vacuum port and a charge is located within the housing. The charge is activated by the electrode in a vacuum environment and deposited onto a substrate at the marking end of the nozzle. The apparatus may be a hand-held device or be disconnected from the handle and mounted to a robot or fixed station.

  14. Device for magneto-optic signal detection with a small crystal prism.

    PubMed

    Saito, K; Sato, S; Shino, K; Taniguchi, T

    2000-03-10

    A device made of a birefringent crystal for signal detection of magneto-optic (MO) disks is presented. The light beam from a MO disk is separated into two orthogonally polarized components at the surface of a birefringent prism. After these two components are reflected by the top and the bottom surfaces of the prism inside, at the detector they become sufficiently separated from each other for discrete detection, even though the prism is small. A method for calculating the light intensities and the positions of focused beams in a birefringent prism and the results of a fundamental experiment are presented.

  15. Vapor sensors using porous silicon-based optical interferometers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gao, Ting

    The ability to detect or monitor various gases is important for many applications. Smaller, more portable, lower power, and less expensive gas sensors are needed. Porous silicon (PS) has attracted attention for use in such devices due to its unique optical and electronic properties and its large surface area. This thesis describes the preparation and characteristics of vapor sensors using thin PS Fabry-Perot films. The average refractive index of the PS layer increases when the PS film is exposed to analyte vapors, causing the optical fringes to shift to longer wavelengths. Two methods for monitoring the shifts in these optical fringes are explored in this thesis. The first technique measures the reflection spectrum using a white light source, and the second measures the intensity of reflected light using a low-power red diode laser source. The latter method offers a simple, low-cost and reliable transduction mechanism for vapor sensing. A vapor sensor with a detection limit of 250 ppb and a wide dynamic range (five orders of magnitude) is demonstrated. The effect of the PS film thickness and porosity on sensitivity are systematically studied. A model based on the Bruggeman approximation and capillary condensation is proposed to explain this sensing behavior. Two approaches to improve the sensitivity of the PS sensors are explored. In the first, porous Si is chemically modified and the investigation shows that the sensing response varies with different surface properties. In a second study, thin polymer layers are coated on the porous Si substrate to selectively filter solvent vapors. This bi-layer approach is also applied to porous Si layers that have luminescent quantum structures. These latter structures sense adsorbates based on quenching of luminescence from the quantum-confined silicon nanostructures. In the course of this thesis, an anomalous response of ozone-oxidized PS films to water vapor was discovered. The effect was studied by optical interferometry

  16. Fabrication and characterization of Bismuth-Cerium composite iron garnet epitaxial films for magneto optical applications

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Chandra Sekhar, M.; Singh, Mahi R.

    2012-10-15

    The Bi{sub x}Ce{sub 3-x}Fe{sub 5}O{sub 12} (x = 0.8) epitaxial films of high quality were grown by means of pulsed laser deposition on paramagnetic substrates of Gadolinium Gallium Garnet. We study the modifications of substitutions in the parent garnet Y{sub 3}Fe{sub 5}O{sub 12} that produces a higher magneto-optical response at communication wavelengths. These films displayed a strong in plane textures which are treated in argon as well as reduced atmosphere conditions. The elemental constituents of these films were confirmed by energy dispersive-X ray analysis, elastic recoil detection system, Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements. The transmittance spectra weremore » measured and found these films exhibit good transmittance values. The transmittance-spectra were fitted with the theoretical model and the optical constants such as refractive index and absorption edge were evaluated. The highest (negative) Faraday rotation was found for these films treated in the environment of Ar + H{sub 2}. A density matrix theory has been developed for the Faraday rotation and a good agreement between the theory and experiment is found. These epitaxial garnet films can be used in a wide range of frequencies from visible to infrared spectra making them ideal for many magneto optical applications. Therefore, these films may overcome many issues in fabricating all optical isolators which is the viable solution for integrated photonics.« less

  17. Test methods for optical disk media characteristics (for 356 mm ruggedized magneto-optic media)

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Podio, Fernando L.

    1991-01-01

    Standard test methods for computer storage media characteristics are essential and allow for conformance to media interchange standards. The test methods were developed for 356 mm two-sided laminated glass substrate with a magneto-optic active layer media technology. These test methods may be used for testing other media types, but in each case their applicability must be evaluated. Test methods are included for a series of different media characteristics, including operational, nonoperational, and storage environments; mechanical and physical characteristics; and substrate, recording layer, and preformat characteristics. Tests for environmental qualification and media lifetimes are also included. The best methods include testing conditions, testing procedures, a description of the testing setup, and the required calibration procedures.

  18. Magneto-optical properties and recombination dynamics of isoelectronic bound excitons in ZnO

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Chen, S. L.; Chen, W. M.; Buyanova, I. A.

    2014-02-21

    Magneto-optical and time-resolved photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopies are employed to evaluate electronic structure of a bound exciton (BX) responsible for the 3.364 eV line (labeled as I{sub 1}{sup *}) in bulk ZnO. From time-resolved PL spectroscopy, I{sub 1}{sup *} is concluded to originate from the exciton ground state. Based on performed magneto-PL studies, the g-factors of the involved electron and hole are determined as being g{sub e} = 1.98 and g{sub h}{sup ∥}(g{sub h}{sup ⊥}) = 1.2(1.62), respectively. These values are nearly identical to the reported g-factors for the I{sup *} line in ZnO (Phys. Rev. B 86, 235205 (2012)), which proves thatmore » I{sub 1}{sup *} should have a similar origin as I{sup *} and should arise from an exciton bound to an isoelectronic center with a hole-attractive potential.« less

  19. Magnetic field mapping of the UCNTau magneto-gravitational trap: design study

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Libersky, Matthew Murray

    2014-09-04

    The beta decay lifetime of the free neutron is an important input to the Standard Model of particle physics, but values measured using different methods have exhibited substantial disagreement. The UCN r experiment in development at Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) plans to explore better methods of measuring the neutron lifetime using ultracold neutrons (UCNs). In this experiment, UCNs are confined in a magneto-gravitational trap formed by a curved, asymmetric Halbach array placed inside a vacuum vessel and surrounded by holding field coils. If any defects present in the Halbach array are sufficient to reduce the local field near themore » surface below that needed to repel the desired energy level UCNs, loss by material interaction can occur at a rate similar to the loss by beta decay. A map of the magnetic field near the surface of the array is necessary to identify any such defects, but the array's curved geometry and placement in a vacuum vessel make conventional field mapping methods difficult. A system consisting of computer vision-based tracking and a rover holding a Hall probe has been designed to map the field near the surface of the array, and construction of an initial prototype has begun at LANL. The design of the system and initial results will be described here.« less

  20. Optical Deformability as New Diagnostic Cell Marker

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Guck, Jochen; Lincoln, Bryan; Schinkinger, Stefan; Wottawah, Falk; Moore, Samantha; Ananthakrishnan, Revathi; Kas, Josef

    2002-03-01

    The optical stretcher is a novel laser tool that can deform individual cells in rapid succession. When a cell is trapped between two counterpropagating laser beams the optically induced surface forces stretch the cell along the laser axis. The degree of stretching depends on the optical properties, which determine the forces, as well as the mechanical properties, which govern the response of the cell to the forces. Our results show that different cells can be distinguished based on their optical deformability, which naturally suggests using the optical deformability of cells as a novel cell marker. Many diseases are reflected in an altered cytoskeleton, which leads to a different optical deformability. An important example is the malignant transformation of cells, which is accompanied by a decrease in cytoskeletal integrity and, consequently, cell elasticity. Using optical deformability as cell marker holds the promise of earlier detection and improved diagnosis of cancer. In this context, the optical stretcher can be used as a diagnostic device to detect and sort abnormal cells. Future applications in the study of the normal differentiation of cells from stem cells to mature cells are envisioned.

  1. Hydride vapor phase GaN films with reduced density of residual electrons and deep traps

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Polyakov, A. Y., E-mail: aypolyakov@gmail.com; Smirnov, N. B.; Govorkov, A. V.

    2014-05-14

    Electrical properties and deep electron and hole traps spectra are compared for undoped n-GaN films grown by hydride vapor phase epitaxy (HVPE) in the regular process (standard HVPE samples) and in HVPE process optimized for decreasing the concentration of residual donor impurities (improved HVPE samples). It is shown that the residual donor density can be reduced by optimization from ∼10{sup 17} cm{sup −3} to (2–5) × 10{sup 14} cm{sup −3}. The density of deep hole traps and deep electron traps decreases with decreased donor density, so that the concentration of deep hole traps in the improved samples is reduced to ∼5 × 10{sup 13} cm{sup −3} versusmore » 2.9 × 10{sup 16} cm{sup −3} in the standard samples, with a similar decrease in the electron traps concentration.« less

  2. Chemical characterization of single micro- and nano-particles by optical catapulting-optical trapping-laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Fortes, Francisco J.; Fernández-Bravo, Angel; Javier Laserna, J.

    2014-10-01

    Spectral identification of individual micro- and nano-sized particles by the sequential intervention of optical catapulting, optical trapping and laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy is presented. The three techniques are used for different purposes. Optical catapulting (OC) serves to put the particulate material under inspection in aerosol form. Optical trapping (OT) permits the isolation and manipulation of individual particles from the aerosol, which are subsequently analyzed by laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS). Once catapulted, the dynamics of particle trapping depends both on the laser beam characteristics (power and intensity gradient) and on the particle properties (size, mass and shape). Particles are stably trapped in air at atmospheric pressure and can be conveniently manipulated for a precise positioning for LIBS analysis. The spectra acquired from the individually trapped particles permit a straightforward identification of the material inspected. Variability of LIBS signal for the inspection of Ni microspheres was 30% relative standard deviation. OC-OT-LIBS permits the separation of particles in a heterogeneous mixture and the subsequent analysis of the isolated particle of interest. In order to evaluate the sensitivity of the approach, the number of absolute photons emitted by a single trapped particle was calculated. The limit of detection (LOD) for Al2O3 particles was calculated to be 200 attograms aluminium.

  3. Magneto-optical imaging of polycrystalline FeTe 1-xSe x prepared at various conditions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ding, Q.; Taen, T.; Mohan, S.; Nakajima, Y.; Tamegai, T.

    2011-11-01

    We have prepared high-quality polycrystalline FeTe1-xSex by sintering at different temperatures and characterized their structural and magnetic properties with X-ray diffraction, magnetization measurements, and magneto-optical imaging. The intragranular Jc was estimated to be 5 × 104A/cm2, which is smaller than the single crystal, but still in the range for practical applications.

  4. In-Fiber Magneto-Optic Devices Based on Ultrahigh Verdet Constant Organic Materials and Holey Fibers

    DTIC Science & Technology

    2009-02-02

    protocols and a noise equivalent magnetic field sensitivity of ~ 100 pT/ VHz has been demonstrated. • Magneto-optic properties of magnetite - PMMA composite...nanoparticle - PMMA nanocomposite. We have used both transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) to...we expect to enhance it in our devices by their proper symmetrization as described above. Passive Poking core ^^ direction Magnetic AA

  5. Trapping force and optical lifting under focused evanescent wave illumination.

    PubMed

    Ganic, Djenan; Gan, Xiaosong; Gu, Min

    2004-11-01

    A physical model is presented to understand and calculate trapping force exerted on a dielectric micro-particle under focused evanescent wave illumination. This model is based on our recent vectorial diffraction model by a high numerical aperture objective operating under the total internal condition. As a result, trapping force in a focused evanescent spot generated by both plane wave (TEM00) and doughnut beam (TEM*01) illumination is calculated, showing an agreement with the measured results. It is also revealed by this model that unlike optical trapping in the far-field region, optical axial trapping force in an evanescent focal spot increases linearly with the size of a trapped particle. This prediction shows that it is possible to overcome the force of gravity to lift a polystyrene particle of up to 800 nm in radius with a laser beam of power 10 microW.

  6. Receptor-Targeted, Magneto-Mechanical Stimulation of Osteogenic Differentiation of Human Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells

    PubMed Central

    Hu, Bin; El Haj, Alicia J; Dobson, Jon

    2013-01-01

    Mechanical cues are employed to promote stem cell differentiation and functional tissue formation in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. We have developed a Magnetic Force Bioreactor (MFB) that delivers highly targeted local forces to cells at a pico-newton level, utilizing magnetic micro- and nano-particles to target cell surface receptors. In this study, we investigated the effects of magnetically targeting and actuating specific two mechanical-sensitive cell membrane receptors—platelet-derived growth factor receptor α (PDGFRα) and integrin ανβ3. It was found that a higher mineral-to-matrix ratio was obtained after three weeks of magneto-mechanical stimulation coupled with osteogenic medium culture by initially targeting PDGFRα compared with targeting integrin ανβ3 and non-treated controls. Moreover, different initiation sites caused a differentiated response profile when using a 2-day-lagged magneto-mechanical stimulation over culture periods of 7 and 12 days). However, both resulted in statistically higher osteogenic marker genes expression compared with immediate magneto-mechanical stimulation. These results provide insights into important parameters for designing appropriate protocols for ex vivo induced bone formation via magneto-mechanical actuation. PMID:24065106

  7. Measurement of the magnetic anisotropy energy constants for magneto-optical recording media

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Hajjar, R. A.; Wu, T. H.; Mansuripur, M.

    1992-01-01

    Measurement of the magneto-optical polar Kerr effect is performed on rare earth-transition metal (RE-TM) amorphous films using in-plane fields. From this measurement and the measurement of the saturation magnetization using a vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), the magnetic anisotropy constants are determined. The temperature dependence is presented of the magnetic anisotropy in the range of -175 to 175 C. The results show a dip in the anisotropy near magnetic compensation. This anomaly is explained based on the finite exchange coupling between the rare earth and transition metal subnetworks.

  8. Imaging nanoparticle flow using magneto-motive optical Doppler tomography.

    PubMed

    Kim, Jeehyun; Oh, Junghwan; Milner, Thomas E; Nelson, J Stuart

    2007-01-24

    We introduce a novel approach for imaging solutions of superparamagnetic iron oxide (SPIO) nanoparticles using magneto-motive optical Doppler tomography (MM-ODT). MM-ODT combines an externally applied temporally oscillating high-strength magnetic field with ODT to detect nanoparticles flowing through a microfluidic channel. A solenoid with a cone-shaped ferrite core extensively increased the magnetic field strength (B(max) = 1 T, [Formula: see text]) at the tip of the core and also focused the magnetic field in microfluidic channels containing nanoparticle solutions. Nanoparticle contrast was demonstrated in a microfluidic channel filled with an SPIO solution by imaging the Doppler frequency shift which was observed independently of the nanoparticle flow rate and direction. Results suggest that MM-ODT may be applied to image Doppler shift of SPIO nanoparticles in microfluidic flows with high contrast.

  9. Magneto-optical nanoparticles for cyclic magnetomotive photoacoustic imaging

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Arnal, Bastien; Yoon, Soon Joon; Li, Junwei; Gao, Xiaohu; O'Donnell, Matthew

    2018-05-01

    Photoacoustic imaging is a highly promising tool to visualize molecular events with deep tissue penetration. Like most other modalities, however, image contrast under in vivo conditions is far from optimal due to background signals from tissue. Using iron oxide-gold core-shell nanoparticles, we previously demonstrated that magnetomotive photoacoustic (mmPA) imaging can dramatically reduce the influence of background signals and produce high-contrast molecular images. Here we report two significant advances toward clinical translation of this technology. First, we introduce a new class of compact, uniform, magneto-optically coupled core-shell nanoparticle, prepared through localized copolymerization of polypyrrole (PPy) on an iron oxide nanoparticle surface. The resulting iron oxide-PPy nanoparticles solve the photo-instability and small-scale synthesis problems previously encountered by the gold coating approach, and extend the large optical absorption coefficient of the particles beyond 1000 nm in wavelength. In parallel, we have developed a new generation of mmPA imaging featuring cyclic magnetic motion and ultrasound speckle tracking, with an image capture frame rate several hundred times faster than the photoacoustic speckle tracking method demonstrated previously. These advances enable robust artifact elimination caused by physiologic motion and first application of the mmPA technology in vivo for sensitive tumor imaging.

  10. Extending calibration-free force measurements to optically-trapped rod-shaped samples

    PubMed Central

    Català, Frederic; Marsà, Ferran; Montes-Usategui, Mario; Farré, Arnau; Martín-Badosa, Estela

    2017-01-01

    Optical trapping has become an optimal choice for biological research at the microscale due to its non-invasive performance and accessibility for quantitative studies, especially on the forces involved in biological processes. However, reliable force measurements depend on the calibration of the optical traps, which is different for each experiment and hence requires high control of the local variables, especially of the trapped object geometry. Many biological samples have an elongated, rod-like shape, such as chromosomes, intracellular organelles (e.g., peroxisomes), membrane tubules, certain microalgae, and a wide variety of bacteria and parasites. This type of samples often requires several optical traps to stabilize and orient them in the correct spatial direction, making it more difficult to determine the total force applied. Here, we manipulate glass microcylinders with holographic optical tweezers and show the accurate measurement of drag forces by calibration-free direct detection of beam momentum. The agreement between our results and slender-body hydrodynamic theoretical calculations indicates potential for this force-sensing method in studying protracted, rod-shaped specimens. PMID:28220855

  11. Dynamics of submicron aerosol droplets in a robust optical trap formed by multiple Bessel beams

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Thanopulos, Ioannis; Theoretical and Physical Chemistry Institute, National Hellenic Research Foundation, Athens 11635; Luckhaus, David

    In this paper, we model the three-dimensional escape dynamics of single submicron-sized aerosol droplets in optical multiple Bessel beam traps. Trapping in counter-propagating Bessel beams (CPBBs) is compared with a newly proposed quadruple Bessel beam (QBB) trap, which consists of two perpendicularly arranged CPBB traps. Calculations are performed for perfectly and imperfectly aligned traps. Mie-theory and finite-difference time-domain methods are used to calculate the optical forces. The droplet escape kinetics are obtained from the solution of the Langevin equation using a Verlet algorithm. Provided the traps are perfectly aligned, the calculations indicate very long lifetimes for droplets trapped either inmore » the CPBB or in the QBB trap. However, minor misalignments that are hard to control experimentally already severely diminish the stability of the CPBB trap. By contrast, such minor misalignments hardly affect the extended droplet lifetimes in a QBB trap. The QBB trap is found to be a stable, robust optical trap, which should enable the experimental investigation of submicron droplets with radii down to 100 nm. Optical binding between two droplets and its potential role in preventing coagulation when loading a CPBB trap is briefly addressed.« less

  12. Radiotherapy supporting system based on the image database using IS&C magneto-optical disk

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ando, Yutaka; Tsukamoto, Nobuhiro; Kunieda, Etsuo; Kubo, Atsushi

    1994-05-01

    Since radiation oncologists make the treatment plan by prior experience, information about previous cases is helpful in planning the radiation treatment. We have developed an supporting system for the radiation therapy. The case-based reasoning method was implemented in order to search old treatments and images of past cases. This system evaluates similarities between the current case and all stored cases (case base). The portal images of the similar cases can be retrieved for reference images, as well as treatment records which show examples of the radiation treatment. By this system radiotherapists can easily make suitable plans of the radiation therapy. This system is useful to prevent inaccurate plannings due to preconceptions and/or lack of knowledge. Images were stored into magneto-optical disks and the demographic data is recorded to the hard disk which is equipped in the personal computer. Images can be displayed quickly on the radiotherapist's demands. The radiation oncologist can refer past cases which are recorded in the case base and decide the radiation treatment of the current case. The file and data format of magneto-optical disk is the IS&C format. This format provides the interchangeability and reproducibility of the medical information which includes images and other demographic data.

  13. Digital holography applications in ophthalmology, biometry, and optical trapping characterization

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Potcoava, Mariana Camelia

    This dissertation combines various holographic techniques with application on the two- and three-dimensional imaging of ophthalmic tissue, fingerprints, and microsphere samples with micrometer resolution. Digital interference holography (DIH) uses scanned wavelengths to synthesize short-coherence interference tomographic images. We used DIH for in vitro imaging of human optic nerve head and retina. Tomographic images were produced by superposition of holograms. Holograms were obtained with a signal-to-noise ratio of approximately 50 dB. Optic nerve head characteristics (shape, diameter, cup depth, and cup width) were quantified with a few micron resolution (4.06--4.8mum). Multiple layers were distinguishable in cross-sectional images of the macula. To our knowledge, this is the first report of DIH use to image human macular and optic nerve tissue. Holographic phase microscopy is used to produce images of thin film patterns left by latent fingerprints. Two or more holographic phase images with different wavelengths are combined for optical phase unwrapping of images of patent prints. We demonstrated digital interference holography images of a plastic print, and latent prints. These demonstrations point to significant contributions to biometry by using digital interference holography to identify and quantify Level 1 (pattern), Level 2 (minutia points), and Level 3 (pores and ridge contours). Quantitative studies of physical and biological processes and precise non-contact manipulation of nanometer/micrometer trapped objects can be effectuated with nanometer accuracy due to the development of optical tweezers. A three-dimensional gradient trap is produced at the focus position of a high NA microscope objective. Particles are trapped axially and laterally due to the gradient force. The particle is confined in a potential well and the trap acts as a harmonic spring. The elastic constant or the stiffness along any axis is determined from the particle displacements in

  14. Universal approach for appending double-negative materials to magneto-optics in multilayer structures

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Zamani, Mehdi; Eftekhari, Sepideh; Ghanaatshoar, Majid

    2018-04-01

    We express a general formalism to describe light propagation in multilayers including both left-handed and normal magnetic materials. In this order, we employ propagation and boundary matrices which are applicable to any configuration of media, incident angle of light and orientation of magnetization in each ferromagnetic layer. We calculate the Kerr and Faraday rotation in some given magneto-optical multilayers and show that this universal approach can thoroughly illustrate spectral broadening by the left-handed layers, even in presence of dispersion effect.

  15. Magneto-optical properties of semi-parabolic plus semi-inverse squared quantum wells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tung, Luong V.; Vinh, Pham T.; Phuc, Huynh V.

    2018-06-01

    We theoretically study the optical absorption in a quantum well with the semi-parabolic potential plus the semi-inverse squared potential (SPSIS) in the presence of a static magnetic field in which both one- and two-photon absorption processes have been taken into account. The expression of the magneto-optical absorption coefficient (MOAC) is expressed by the second-order golden rule approximation including the electron-LO phonon interaction. We also use the profile method to obtain the full width at half maximum (FWHM) of the absorption peaks. Our numerical results show that either MOAC or FWHM strongly depends on the confinement frequency, temperature, and magnetic field but their dependence on the parameter β is very weak. The temperature dependence of FWHM is consistent with the previous theoretical and experimental works.

  16. Magneto-optic tracking of a flexible laparoscopic ultrasound transducer for laparoscope augmentation.

    PubMed

    Feuerstein, Marco; Reichl, Tobias; Vogel, Jakob; Schneider, Armin; Feussner, Hubertus; Navabi, Nassir

    2007-01-01

    In abdominal surgery, a laparoscopic ultrasound transducer is commonly used to detect lesions such as metastases. The determination and visualization of position and orientation of its flexible tip in relation to the patient or other surgical instruments can be of much help to (novice) surgeons utilizing the transducer intraoperatively. This difficult subject has recently been paid attention to by the scientific community . Electromagnetic tracking systems can be applied to track the flexible tip. However, the magnetic field can be distorted by ferromagnetic material. This paper presents a new method based on optical tracking of the laparoscope and magneto-optic tracking of the transducer, which is able to automatically detect field distortions. This is used for a smooth augmentation of the B-scan images of the transducer directly on the camera images in real time.

  17. Enhanced Faraday rotation in one dimensional magneto-plasmonic structure due to Fano resonance

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sadeghi, S.; Hamidi, S. M.

    2018-04-01

    Enhanced Faraday rotation in a new type of magneto-plasmonic structure with the capability of Fano resonance, has been reported theoretically. A magneto-plasmonic structure composed of a gold corrugated layer deposited on a magneto-optically active layer was studied by means of Lumerical software based on finite-difference time-domain. In our proposed structure, plasmonic Fano resonance and localized surface plasmon have induced enhancement in magneto-optical Faraday rotation. It is shown that the influence of geometrical parameters in gold layer offers a desirable platform for engineering spectral position of Fano resonance and enhancement of Faraday rotation.

  18. Exceptionally large magneto-optical response in dispersions of plate-like nanocrystallites and magnetic nanoparticles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    May, Kathrin; Eremin, Alexey; Stannarius, Ralf; Szabó, Balázs; Börzsönyi, Tamás; Appel, Ingo; Behrens, Silke; Klein, Susanne

    2017-06-01

    We introduce a binary colloidal system with an exceptionally strong magneto-optical response. Its induced optical birefringence at even low magnetic fields (in the mT range) reaches a value with the same order of magnitude as that of nematic liquid crystals. This system is based on a binary mixture of plate-like, non-magnetic pigment nanoparticles and a small volume fraction (< 1 v %) of spherical magnetic nanoparticles. In the field-free state, the suspension is isotropic. Birefringence is caused by an alignment of the pigment platelets, commanded by shape-anisotropic agglomerates of the magnetic nanoparticles in an external magnetic field. We give a semiquantitative discussion about this.

  19. Optical trapping of metal-dielectric nanoparticle clusters near photonic crystal microcavities.

    PubMed

    Mejia, Camilo A; Huang, Ningfeng; Povinelli, Michelle L

    2012-09-01

    We predict the formation of optically trapped, metal-dielectric nanoparticle clusters above photonic crystal microcavities. We determine the conditions on particle size and position for a gold particle to be trapped above the microcavity. We then show that strong field redistribution and enhancement near the trapped gold nanoparticle results in secondary trapping sites for a pair of dielectric nanoparticles.

  20. Noncontact speckle-based optical sensor for detection of glucose concentration using magneto-optic effect

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ozana, Nisan; Beiderman, Yevgeny; Anand, Arun; Javidi, Baharam; Polani, Sagi; Schwarz, Ariel; Shemer, Amir; Garcia, Javier; Zalevsky, Zeev

    2016-06-01

    We experimentally verify a speckle-based technique for noncontact measurement of glucose concentration in the bloodstream. The final device is intended to be a single wristwatch-style device containing a laser, a camera, and an alternating current (ac) electromagnet generated by a solenoid. The experiments presented are performed in vitro as proof of the concept. When a glucose substance is inserted into a solenoid generating an ac magnetic field, it exhibits Faraday rotation, which affects the temporal changes of the secondary speckle pattern distributions. The temporal frequency resulting from the ac magnetic field was found to have a lock-in amplification role, which increased the observability of the relatively small magneto-optic effect. Experimental results to support the proposed concept are presented.

  1. Study on photonic angular momentum states in coaxial magneto-optical waveguides

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Yang, Mu; Wu, Li-Ting; Guo, Tian-Jing

    2014-10-21

    By rigorously solving Maxwell's equations, we develop a full-wave electromagnetic theory for the study of photonic angular momentum states (PAMSs) in coaxial magneto-optical (MO) waveguides. Paying attention to a metal-MO-metal coaxial configuration, we show that the dispersion curves of the originally degenerated PAMSs experience a splitting, which are determined by the off-diagonal permittivity tensor element of the MO medium. We emphasize that this broken degeneracy in dispersion relation is accompanied by modified distributions of field component and transverse energy flux. A qualitative analysis about the connection between the split dispersion behavior and the field distribution is provided. Potential applications aremore » discussed.« less

  2. Cell Membrane Deformation Induced by a Fibronectin-Coated Polystyrene Microbead in a 200-MHz Acoustic Trap

    PubMed Central

    Hwang, Jae Youn; Lee, Changyang; Lam, Kwok Ho; Kim, Hyung Ham; Lee, Jungwoo; Shung, K. Kirk

    2014-01-01

    The measurement of cell mechanics is crucial for a better understanding of cellular responses during the progression of certain diseases and for the identification of the cell’s nature. Many techniques using optical tweezers, atomic force microscopy, and micro-pipettes have been developed to probe and manipulate cells in the spatial domain. In particular, we recently proposed a two-dimensional acoustic trapping method as an alternative technique for small particle manipulation. Although the proposed method may have advantages over optical tweezers, its applications to cellular mechanics have not yet been vigorously investigated. This study represents an initial attempt to use acoustic tweezers as a tool in the field of cellular mechanics in which cancer cell membrane deformability is studied. A press-focused 193-MHz single-element lithium niobate (LiNbO3) transducer was designed and fabricated to trap a 5-µm polystyrene microbead near the ultrasound beam focus. The microbeads were coated with fibronectin, and trapped before being attached to the surface of a human breast cancer cell (MCF-7). The cell membrane was then stretched by remotely pulling a cell-attached microbead with the acoustic trap. The maximum cell membrane stretched lengths were measured to be 0.15, 0.54, and 1.41 µm at input voltages to the transducer of 6.3, 9.5, and 12.6 Vpp, respectively. The stretched length was found to increase nonlinearly as a function of the voltage input. No significant cytotoxicity was observed to result from the bead or the trapping force on the cell during or after the deformation procedure. Hence, the results convincingly demonstrated the possible application of the acoustic trapping technique as a tool for cell manipulation. PMID:24569245

  3. Radio-frequency-modulated Rydberg states in a vapor cell

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Miller, S. A.; Anderson, D. A.; Raithel, G.

    2016-05-01

    We measure strong radio-frequency (RF) electric fields using rubidium Rydberg atoms prepared in a room-temperature vapor cell as field sensors. Electromagnetically induced transparency is employed as an optical readout. We RF-modulate the 60{{{S}}}1/2 and 58{{{D}}}5/2 Rydberg states with 50 and 100 MHz fields, respectively. For weak to moderate RF fields, the Rydberg levels become Stark-shifted, and sidebands appear at even multiples of the driving frequency. In high fields, the adjacent hydrogenic manifold begins to intersect the shifted levels, providing rich spectroscopic structure suitable for precision field measurements. A quantitative description of strong-field level modulation and mixing of S and D states with hydrogenic states is provided by Floquet theory. Additionally, we estimate the shielding of DC electric fields in the interior of the glass vapor cell.

  4. Nanonewton optical force trap employing anti-reflection coated, high-refractive-index titania microspheres

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jannasch, Anita; Demirörs, Ahmet F.; van Oostrum, Peter D. J.; van Blaaderen, Alfons; Schäffer, Erik

    2012-07-01

    Optical tweezers are exquisite position and force transducers and are widely used for high-resolution measurements in fields as varied as physics, biology and materials science. Typically, small dielectric particles are trapped in a tightly focused laser and are often used as handles for sensitive force measurements. Improvement to the technique has largely focused on improving the instrument and shaping the light beam, and there has been little work exploring the benefit of customizing the trapped object. Here, we describe how anti-reflection coated, high-refractive-index core-shell particles composed of titania enable single-beam optical trapping with an optical force greater than a nanonewton. The increased force range broadens the scope of feasible optical trapping experiments and will pave the way towards more efficient light-powered miniature machines, tools and applications.

  5. Deep cooling of optically trapped atoms implemented by magnetic levitation without transverse confinement.

    PubMed

    Li, Chen; Zhou, Tianwei; Zhai, Yueyang; Xiang, Jinggang; Luan, Tian; Huang, Qi; Yang, Shifeng; Xiong, Wei; Chen, Xuzong

    2017-05-01

    We report a setup for the deep cooling of atoms in an optical trap. The deep cooling is implemented by eliminating the influence of gravity using specially constructed magnetic coils. Compared to the conventional method of generating a magnetic levitating force, the lower trap frequency achieved in our setup provides a lower limit of temperature and more freedoms to Bose gases with a simpler solution. A final temperature as low as ∼6nK is achieved in the optical trap, and the atomic density is decreased by nearly two orders of magnitude during the second stage of evaporative cooling. This deep cooling of optically trapped atoms holds promise for many applications, such as atomic interferometers, atomic gyroscopes, and magnetometers, as well as many basic scientific research directions, such as quantum simulations and atom optics.

  6. Deep cooling of optically trapped atoms implemented by magnetic levitation without transverse confinement

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Chen; Zhou, Tianwei; Zhai, Yueyang; Xiang, Jinggang; Luan, Tian; Huang, Qi; Yang, Shifeng; Xiong, Wei; Chen, Xuzong

    2017-05-01

    We report a setup for the deep cooling of atoms in an optical trap. The deep cooling is implemented by eliminating the influence of gravity using specially constructed magnetic coils. Compared to the conventional method of generating a magnetic levitating force, the lower trap frequency achieved in our setup provides a lower limit of temperature and more freedoms to Bose gases with a simpler solution. A final temperature as low as ˜ 6 nK is achieved in the optical trap, and the atomic density is decreased by nearly two orders of magnitude during the second stage of evaporative cooling. This deep cooling of optically trapped atoms holds promise for many applications, such as atomic interferometers, atomic gyroscopes, and magnetometers, as well as many basic scientific research directions, such as quantum simulations and atom optics.

  7. Optically assisted trapping with high-permittivity dielectric rings: Towards optical aerosol filtration

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Alaee, Rasoul; Kadic, Muamer; Rockstuhl, Carsten

    Controlling the transport, trapping, and filtering of nanoparticles is important for many applications. By virtue of their weak response to gravity and their thermal motion, various physical mechanisms can be exploited for such operations on nanoparticles. However, the manipulation based on optical forces is potentially most appealing since it constitutes a highly deterministic approach. Plasmonic nanostructures have been suggested for this purpose, but they possess the disadvantages of locally generating heat and trapping the nanoparticles directly on the surface. Here, we propose the use of dielectric rings made of high permittivity materials for trapping nanoparticles. Thanks to their ability tomore » strongly localize the field in space, nanoparticles can be trapped without contact. We use a semianalytical method to study the ability of these rings to trap nanoparticles. Lastly, the results are supported by full-wave simulations and application of the trapping concept to nanoparticle filtration is suggested.« less

  8. Optically assisted trapping with high-permittivity dielectric rings: Towards optical aerosol filtration

    DOE PAGES

    Alaee, Rasoul; Kadic, Muamer; Rockstuhl, Carsten; ...

    2016-10-04

    Controlling the transport, trapping, and filtering of nanoparticles is important for many applications. By virtue of their weak response to gravity and their thermal motion, various physical mechanisms can be exploited for such operations on nanoparticles. However, the manipulation based on optical forces is potentially most appealing since it constitutes a highly deterministic approach. Plasmonic nanostructures have been suggested for this purpose, but they possess the disadvantages of locally generating heat and trapping the nanoparticles directly on the surface. Here, we propose the use of dielectric rings made of high permittivity materials for trapping nanoparticles. Thanks to their ability tomore » strongly localize the field in space, nanoparticles can be trapped without contact. We use a semianalytical method to study the ability of these rings to trap nanoparticles. Lastly, the results are supported by full-wave simulations and application of the trapping concept to nanoparticle filtration is suggested.« less

  9. Electronic structure and magneto-optical Kerr effect spectra of ferromagnetic shape-memory Ni-Mn-Ga alloys: Experiment and density functional theory calculations

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Uba, S.; Bonda, A.; Uba, L.; Bekenov, L. V.; Antonov, V. N.; Ernst, A.

    2016-08-01

    In this joint experimental and ab initio study, we focused on the influence of the chemical composition and martensite phase transition on the electronic, magnetic, optical, and magneto-optical properties of the ferromagnetic shape-memory Ni-Mn-Ga alloys. The polar magneto-optical Kerr effect (MOKE) spectra for the polycrystalline sample of the Ni-Mn-Ga alloy of Ni60Mn13Ga27 composition were measured by means of the polarization modulation method over the photon energy range 0.8 ≤h ν ≤5.8 eV in magnetic field up to 1.5 T. The optical properties (refractive index n and extinction coefficient k ) were measured directly by spectroscopic ellipsometry using the rotating analyzer method. To complement experiments, extensive first-principles calculations were made with two different first-principles approaches combining the advantages of a multiple scattering Green function method and a spin-polarized fully relativistic linear-muffin-tin-orbital method. The electronic, magnetic, and MO properties of Ni-Mn-Ga Heusler alloys were investigated for the cubic austenitic and modulated 7M-like incommensurate martensitic phases in the stoichiometric and off-stoichiometric compositions. The optical and MOKE properties of Ni-Mn-Ga systems are very sensitive to the deviation from the stoichiometry. It was shown that the ab initio calculations reproduce well experimental spectra and allow us to explain the microscopic origin of the Ni2MnGa optical and magneto-optical response in terms of interband transitions. The band-by-band decomposition of the Ni2MnGa MOKE spectra is presented and the interband transitions responsible for the prominent structures in the spectra are identified.

  10. Alkali vapor pressure modulation on the 100 ms scale in a single-cell vacuum system for cold atom experiments

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Dugrain, Vincent; Reichel, Jakob; Rosenbusch, Peter

    2014-08-15

    We describe and characterize a device for alkali vapor pressure modulation on the 100 ms timescale in a single-cell cold atom experiment. Its mechanism is based on optimized heat conduction between a current-modulated alkali dispenser and a heat sink at room temperature. We have studied both the short-term behavior during individual pulses and the long-term pressure evolution in the cell. The device combines fast trap loading and relatively long trap lifetime, enabling high repetition rates in a very simple setup. These features make it particularly suitable for portable atomic sensors.

  11. Assessment of the ``cross-bridge''-induced interaction of red blood cells by optical trapping combined with microfluidics

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lee, Kisung; Wagner, Christian; Priezzhev, Alexander V.

    2017-09-01

    Red blood cell (RBC) aggregation is an intrinsic property of the blood that has a direct effect on the blood viscosity and circulation. Nevertheless, the mechanism behind the RBC aggregation has not been confirmed and is still under investigation with two major hypotheses, known as "depletion layer" and "cross-bridging." We aim to ultimately understand the mechanism of the RBC aggregation and clarify both models. To measure the cell interaction in vitro in different suspensions (including plasma, isotonic solution of fibrinogen, isotonic solution of fibrinogen with albumin, and phosphate buffer saline) while moving the aggregate from one solution to another, an approach combining optical trapping and microfluidics has been applied. The study reveals evidence that RBC aggregation in plasma is at least partly due to the cross-bridging mechanism. The cell interaction strength measured in the final solution was found to be significantly changed depending on the initial solution where the aggregate was formed.

  12. Microfabricated alkali vapor cell with anti-relaxation wall coating

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Straessle, R.; Pétremand, Y.; Briand, D.

    2014-07-28

    We present a microfabricated alkali vapor cell equipped with an anti-relaxation wall coating. The anti-relaxation coating used is octadecyltrichlorosilane and the cell was sealed by thin-film indium-bonding at a low temperature of 140 °C. The cell body is made of silicon and Pyrex and features a double-chamber design. Depolarizing properties due to liquid Rb droplets are avoided by confining the Rb droplets to one chamber only. Optical and microwave spectroscopy performed on this wall-coated cell are used to evaluate the cell's relaxation properties and a potential gas contamination. Double-resonance signals obtained from the cell show an intrinsic linewidth that is significantlymore » lower than the linewidth that would be expected in case the cell had no wall coating but only contained a buffer-gas contamination on the level measured by optical spectroscopy. Combined with further experimental evidence this proves the presence of a working anti-relaxation wall coating in the cell. Such cells are of interest for applications in miniature atomic clocks, magnetometers, and other quantum sensors.« less

  13. Compact optical switch based on 2D photonic crystal and magneto-optical cavity.

    PubMed

    Dmitriev, Victor; Kawakatsu, Marcelo N; Portela, Gianni

    2013-04-01

    A compact optical switch based on a 2D photonic crystal (PhC) and a magneto-optical cavity is suggested and analyzed. The cavity is coupled to two parallel and misaligned PC waveguides and operates with dipole mode. When the cavity is nonmagnetized, the dipole mode excited by a signal in the input waveguide has a node in the output waveguide. Therefore, the input signal is reflected from the cavity. This corresponds to the state off of the switch. Normal to the plane of the PhC magnetization by a dc magnetic field produces a rotation of the dipole pattern in the cavity providing equal amplitudes of the electromagnetic fields in the input and the output waveguides. This corresponds to the state on with high transmission of the input signal. Numerical calculations show that at the 1.55 μm wavelength the device has the insertion loss -0.42 dB in the on state, the isolation -19 dB in the off state and the switch off and on ratio P(on)/P(off) about 72. The frequency band at the level of -15 dB of the resonance curve in off state is about 160 GHz.

  14. A compact multi-trap optical tweezer system based on CD-ROM technologies

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    McMenamin, T.; Lee, W. M.

    2017-08-01

    We implemented an integrated time sharing multiple optical trapping system through the synchronisation of high speed voice coil scanning lens and laser pulsing. The integration is achieved by using commonly available optical pickup unit (OPU) that exists inside optical drives. Scanning frequencies of up to 2 kHz were showed to achieve arbitrary distribution of optical traps within the one-dimensional scan range of the voice coil motor. The functions of the system were demonstrated by the imaging and trapping of 1 μm particles and giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs). The new device circumvents existing bulky laser scanning systems (4f lens systems) with an integrated laser and lens steering platform that can be integrated on a variety of microscopy platforms (confocal, lightsheet, darkfield).

  15. Measuring the charge density of a tapered optical fiber using trapped microparticles.

    PubMed

    Kamitani, Kazuhiko; Muranaka, Takuya; Takashima, Hideaki; Fujiwara, Masazumi; Tanaka, Utako; Takeuchi, Shigeki; Urabe, Shinji

    2016-03-07

    We report the measurements of charge density of tapered optical fibers using charged particles confined in a linear Paul trap at ambient pressure. A tapered optical fiber is placed across the trap axis at a right angle, and polystyrene microparticles are trapped along the trap axis. The distance between the equilibrium position of a positively charged particle and the tapered fiber is used to estimate the amount of charge per unit length of the fiber without knowing the amount of charge of the trapped particle. The charge per unit length of a tapered fiber with a diameter of 1.6 μm was measured to be 2-1+3×10 -11 C/m.

  16. Note: computer controlled rotation mount for large diameter optics.

    PubMed

    Rakonjac, Ana; Roberts, Kris O; Deb, Amita B; Kjærgaard, Niels

    2013-02-01

    We describe the construction of a motorized optical rotation mount with a 40 mm clear aperture. The device is used to remotely control the power of large diameter laser beams for a magneto-optical trap. A piezo-electric ultrasonic motor on a printed circuit board provides rotation with a precision better than 0.03° and allows for a very compact design. The rotation unit is controlled from a computer via serial communication, making integration into most software control platforms straightforward.

  17. Evaluation of a Magneto-optical Filter and a Fabry-perot Interferometer for the Measurement of Solar Velocity Fields from Space

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Rhodes, E. J., Jr.; Cacciani, A.; Blamont, J.; Tomczyk, S.; Ulrich, R. K.; Howard, R. F.

    1984-01-01

    A program was developed to evaluate the performance of three different devices as possible space-borne solar velocity field imagers. Two of these three devices, a magneto-optical filter and a molecular adherence Fabry-Perot interferometer were installed in a newly-constructed observing system located at the 60-foot tower telescope at the Mt. Wilson Observatory. Time series of solar filtergrams and Dopplergrams lasting up to 10 hours per day were obtained with the filter while shorter runs were obtained with the Fabry-Perot. Two-dimensional k (sub h)-omega power spectra which show clearly the well-known p-mode ridges were computed from the time series obtained with the magneto-optical filter. These power spectra were compared with similar power spectra obtained recently with the 13.7-m McMath spectrograph at Kitt Peak.

  18. Trapping and rotating of a metallic particle trimer with optical vortex

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Shen, Z.; Su, L.; Yuan, X.-C.; Shen, Y.-C.

    2016-12-01

    We have experimentally observed the steady rotation of a mesoscopic size metallic particle trimer that is optically trapped by tightly focused circularly polarized optical vortex. Our theoretical analysis suggests that a large proportion of the radial scattering force pushes the metallic particles together, whilst the remaining portion provides the centripetal force necessary for the rotation. Furthermore, we have achieved the optical trapping and rotation of four dielectric particles with optical vortex. We found that, different from the metallic particles, instead of being pushed together by the radial scattering force, the dielectric particles are trapped just outside the maximum intensity ring of the focused field. The radial gradient force attracting the dielectric particles towards the maximum intensity ring provides the centripetal force for the rotation. The achieved steady rotation of the metallic particle trimer reported here may open up applications such as the micro-rotor.

  19. High-resolution dual-trap optical tweezers with differential detection: alignment of instrument components.

    PubMed

    Bustamante, Carlos; Chemla, Yann R; Moffitt, Jeffrey R

    2009-10-01

    Optical traps or "optical tweezers" have become an indispensable tool in understanding fundamental biological processes. Using our design, a dual-trap optical tweezers with differential detection, we can detect length changes to a DNA molecule tethering the trapped beads of 1 bp. By forming two traps from the same laser and maximizing the common optical paths of the two trapping beams, we decouple the instrument from many sources of environmental and instrumental noise that typically limit spatial resolution. The performance of a high-resolution instrument--the formation of strong traps, the minimization of background signals from trap movements, or the mitigation of the axial coupling, for example--can be greatly improved through careful alignment. This procedure, which is described in this article, starts from the laser and advances through the instrument, component by component. Alignment is complicated by the fact that the trapping light is in the near infrared (NIR) spectrum. Standard infrared viewing cards are commonly used to locate the beam, but unfortunately, bleach quickly. As an alternative, we use an IR-viewing charge-coupled device (CCD) camera equipped with a C-mount telephoto lens and display its image on a monitor. By visualizing the scattered light on a pair of irises of identical height separated by >12 in., the beam direction can be set very accurately along a fixed axis.

  20. Optical Traps to Study Properties of Molecular Motors

    PubMed Central

    Spudich, James A.; Rice, Sarah E.; Rock, Ronald S.; Purcell, Thomas J.; Warrick, Hans M.

    2016-01-01

    In vitro motility assays enabled the analysis of coupling between ATP hydrolysis and movement of myosin along actin filaments or kinesin along microtubules. Single-molecule assays using laser trapping have been used to obtain more detailed information about kinesins, myosins, and processive DNA enzymes. The combination of in vitro motility assays with laser-trap measurements has revealed detailed dynamic structural changes associated with the ATPase cycle. This article describes the use of optical traps to study processive and nonprocessive molecular motor proteins, focusing on the design of the instrument and the assays to characterize motility. PMID:22046048

  1. Sensing the delivery and endocytosis of nanoparticles using magneto-photo-acoustic imaging

    PubMed Central

    Qu, M.; Mehrmohammadi, M.; Emelianov, S.Y.

    2015-01-01

    Many biomedical applications necessitate a targeted intracellular delivery of the nanomaterial to specific cells. Therefore, a non-invasive and reliable imaging tool is required to detect both the delivery and cellular endocytosis of the nanoparticles. Herein, we demonstrate that magneto-photo-acoustic (MPA) imaging can be used to monitor the delivery and to identify endocytosis of magnetic and optically absorbing nanoparticles. The relationship between photoacoustic (PA) and magneto-motive ultrasound (MMUS) signals from the in vitro samples were analyzed to identify the delivery and endocytosis of nanoparticles. The results indicated that during the delivery of nanoparticles to the vicinity of the cells, both PA and MMUS signals are almost linearly proportional. However, accumulation of nanoparticles within the cells leads to nonlinear MMUS-PA relationship, due to non-linear MMUS signal amplification. Therefore, through longitudinal MPA imaging, it is possible to monitor the delivery of nanoparticles and identify the endocytosis of the nanoparticles by living cells. PMID:26640773

  2. An optical apparatus for rotation and trapping

    PubMed Central

    Gutiérrez-Medina, Braulio; Andreasson, Johan O. L.; Greenleaf, William J.; LaPorta, Arthur; Block, Steven M.

    2010-01-01

    We present details of the design, construction and testing of a single-beam optical tweezers apparatus capable of measuring and exerting torque, as well as force, on microfabricated, optically anisotropic particles (an ‘optical torque wrench’). The control of angular orientation is achieved by rotating the linear polarization of a trapping laser with an electro-optic modulator (EOM), which affords improved performance over previous designs. The torque imparted to the trapped particle is assessed by measuring the difference between left- and right-circular components of the transmitted light, and constant torque is maintained by feeding this difference signal back into a custom-designed electronic servo loop. The limited angular range of the EOM (±180°) is extended by rapidly reversing the polarization once a threshold angle is reached, enabling the torque clamp to function over unlimited, continuous rotations at high bandwidth. In addition, we developed particles suitable for rotation in this apparatus using microfabrication techniques. Altogether, the system allows for the simultaneous application of forces (~0.1–100 pN) and torques (~1–10,000 pN nm) in the study of biomolecules. As a proof of principle, we demonstrate how our instrument can be used to study the supercoiling of single DNA molecules. PMID:20627165

  3. Energy efficient of ethanol recovery in pervaporation membrane bioreactor with mechanical vapor compression eliminating the cold traps.

    PubMed

    Fan, Senqing; Xiao, Zeyi; Li, Minghai

    2016-07-01

    An energy efficient pervaporation membrane bioreactor with mechanical vapor compression was developed for ethanol recovery during the process of fermentation coupled with pervaporation. Part of the permeate vapor at the membrane downstream under the vacuum condition was condensed by running water at the first condenser and the non-condensed vapor enriched with ethanol was compressed to the atmospheric pressure and pumped into the second condenser, where the vapor was easily condensed into a liquid by air. Three runs of fermentation-pervaporation experiment have been carried out lasting for 192h, 264h and 360h respectively. Complete vapor recovery validated the novel pervaporation membrane bioreactor. The total flux of the polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) membrane was in the range of 350gm(-2)h(-1) and 600gm(-2)h(-1). Compared with the traditional cold traps condensation, mechanical vapor compression behaved a dominant energy saving feature. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

  4. Terahertz magneto-optical properties of bi- and tri-layer graphene

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mei, Hongying; Xu, Wen; Wang, Chao; Yuan, Haifeng; Zhang, Chao; Ding, Lan; Zhang, Jin; Deng, Chao; Wang, Yifan; Peeters, Francois M.

    2018-05-01

    Magneto-optical (MO) properties of bi- and tri-layer graphene are investigated utilizing terahertz time-domain spectroscopy (THz TDS) in the presence of a strong magnetic field at room-temperature. In the Faraday configuration and applying optical polarization measurements, we measure the real and imaginary parts of the longitudinal and transverse MO conductivities of different graphene samples. The obtained experimental data fits very well with the classical MO Drude formula. Thus, we are able to obtain the key sample and material parameters of bi- and tri-layer graphene, such as the electron effective mass, the electronic relaxation time and the electron density. It is found that in high magnetic fields the electronic relaxation time τ for bi- and tri-layer graphene increases with magnetic field B roughly in a form τ∼ B2 . Most importantly, we obtain the electron effective mass for bi- and tri-layer graphene at room-temperature under non-resonant conditions. This work shows how the advanced THz MO techniques can be applied for the investigation into fundamental physics properties of atomically thin 2D electronic systems.

  5. Magneto-optical properties of nanometer crystal giant magneto-optical BiAlDyIG thin film materials post-treated by rapid recurrent thermal annealing method

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Qing-hui, Yang; Huai-wu, Zhang; Ying-li, Liu; Qiye, Wen

    2014-05-01

    In this paper, high quality BiAlDyIG thin films with different bismuth contents have been prepared by using a sol-gel method and post-treated by a rapid recurrent thermal annealing (RRTA) method. Results indicate that the RRTA method improves the Faraday Effect of the films notably, a maximum Faraday angle of -4.9° in the 450 nm thickness film (Bi1.96Dy1.04Fe4AlO12) was obtained at the wavelength of 520 nm, which is about two times larger than that of the common thermal annealed sample, and furthermore the reason of giant Faraday angle was also analyzed in detail. These results are potentially helpful to improve the recording density and signal-to-noise ratio of magneto-optical disk.

  6. Confocal Raman microscopy for monitoring chemical reactions on single optically trapped, solid-phase support particles.

    PubMed

    Houlne, Michael P; Sjostrom, Christopher M; Uibel, Rory H; Kleimeyer, James A; Harris, Joel M

    2002-09-01

    Optical trapping of small structures is a powerful tool for the manipulation and investigation of colloidal and particulate materials. The tight focus excitation requirements of optical trapping are well suited to confocal Raman microscopy. In this work, an inverted confocal Raman microscope is developed for studies of chemical reactions on single, optically trapped particles and applied to reactions used in solid-phase peptide synthesis. Optical trapping and levitation allow a particle to be moved away from the coverslip and into solution, avoiding fluorescence interference from the coverslip. More importantly, diffusion of reagents into the particle is not inhibited by a surface, so that reaction conditions mimic those of particles dispersed in solution. Optical trapping and levitation also maintain optical alignment, since the particle is centered laterally along the optical axis and within the focal plane of the objective, where both optical forces and light collection are maximized. Hour-long observations of chemical reactions on individual, trapped silica particles are reported. Using two-dimensional least-squares analysis methods, the Raman spectra collected during the course of a reaction can be resolved into component contributions. The resolved spectra of the time-varying species can be observed, as they bind to or cleave from the particle surface.

  7. In situ microparticle analysis of marine phytoplankton cells with infrared laser-based optical tweezers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Sonek, G. J.; Liu, Y.; Iturriaga, R. H.

    1995-11-01

    We describe the application of infrared optical tweezers to the in situ microparticle analysis of marine phytoplankton cells. A Nd:YAG laser (lambda=3D 1064 nm) trap is used to confine and manipulate single Nannochloris and Synechococcus cells in an enriched seawater medium while spectral fluorescence and Lorenz-Mie backscatter signals are simultaneously acquired under a variety of excitation and trapping conditions. Variations in the measured fluorescence intensities of chlorophyll a (Chl a) and phycoerythrin pigments in phytoplankton cells are observed. These variations are related, in part, to basic intrasample variability, but they also indicate that increasing ultraviolet-exposure time and infrared trapping power may have short-term effects on cellular physiology that are related to Chl a photobleaching and laser-induced heating, respectively. The use of optical tweezers to study the factors that affect marine cell physiology and the processes of absorption, scattering, and attenuation by individual cells, organisms, and particulate matter that contribute to optical closure on a microscopic scale are also described. (c)1995 Optical Society of America

  8. Magnetometry of single ferromagnetic nanoparticles using magneto-optical indicator films with spatial amplification

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Balk, Andrew L., E-mail: andrew.balk@nist.gov; Maryland NanoCenter, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742; Hangarter, Carlos

    2015-03-16

    We present a magneto-optical technique to spatially amplify and image fringe fields from single ferromagnetic nanorods. The fringe fields nucleate magnetic domains in a low-coercivity, perpendicularly magnetized indicator film, which are expanded by an applied out-of-plane field from the nanoscale to the microscale for measurement with polar Kerr microscopy. The nucleation location and therefore magnetic orientation of the sample nanorod are detected as spatially dependent field biases in locally measured hysteresis loops of the indicator film. We first discuss our method to fabricate the high-sensitivity indicator film with low energy argon ion irradiation. We then present a map of themore » amplified signal produced from a single nanorod as measured by the indicator film and compare it with a simultaneously obtained, unamplified fringe field map. The comparison demonstrates the advantage of the amplification mechanism and the capability of the technique to be performed with single-spot magneto-optical Kerr effect magnetometers. Our signal-to-noise ratio determines a minimum measureable particle diameter of tens of nanometers for typical transition metals. We finally use our method to obtain hysteresis loops from multiple nanorods in parallel. Our technique is unperturbed by applied in-plane fields for magnetic manipulation of nanoparticles, is robust against many common noise sources, and is applicable in a variety of test environments. We conclude with a discussion of the future optimization and application of our indicator film technique.« less

  9. Vectorial magnetometry with the magneto-optic Kerr effect applied to Co/Cu/Co trilayer structures

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Daboo, C.; Bland, J. A. C.; Hicken, R. J.; Ives, A. J. R.; Baird, M. J.; Walker, M. J.

    1993-05-01

    We describe an arrangement in which the magnetization components parallel and perpendicular to the applied field are both determined from longitudinal magneto-optic Kerr effect measurements. This arrangement differs from the usual procedures in that the same optical geometry is used but the magnet geometry altered. This leads to two magneto-optic signals which are directly comparable in magnitude thereby giving the in-plane magnetization vector directly. We show that it is of great value to study both in-plane magnetization vector components when studying coupled structures where significant anisotropies are also present. We discuss simulations which show that it is possible to accurately determine the coupling strength in such structures by examining the behavior of the component of magnetization perpendicular to the applied field in the vicinity of the hard in-plane anisotropy axis. We illustrate this technique by examining the magnetization and magnetic anisotropy behavior of ultrathin Co/Cu(111)/Co (dCu=20 Å and 27 Å) trilayer structures prepared by molecular beam epitaxy, in which coherent rotation of the magnetization vector is observed when the magnetic field B is applied along the hard in-plane anisotropy axis, with the magnitude of the magnetization vector constant and close to its bulk value. Results of micromagnetic calculations closely reproduce the observed parallel and perpendicular magnetization loops, and yield strong uniaxial magnetic anisotropies in both layers, while the interlayer coupling appears to be absent or negligible in comparison with the anisotropy strengths.

  10. Effect of pulse temporal shape on optical trapping and impulse transfer using ultrashort pulsed lasers.

    PubMed

    Shane, Janelle C; Mazilu, Michael; Lee, Woei Ming; Dholakia, Kishan

    2010-03-29

    We investigate the effects of pulse duration on optical trapping with high repetition rate ultrashort pulsed lasers, through Lorentz-Mie theory, numerical simulation, and experiment. Optical trapping experiments use a 12 femtosecond duration infrared pulsed laser, with the trapping microscope's temporal dispersive effects measured and corrected using the Multiphoton Intrapulse Interference Phase Scan method. We apply pulse shaping to reproducibly stretch pulse duration by 1.5 orders of magnitude and find no material-independent effects of pulse temporal profile on optical trapping of 780nm silica particles, in agreement with our theory and simulation. Using pulse shaping, we control two-photon fluorescence in trapped fluorescent particles, opening the door to other coherent control applications with trapped particles.

  11. Investigation of the geometrical barrier in Bi-2212 using the magneto-optical technique

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lin, Z. W.; Gu, G. D.; Russell, G. J.

    2000-08-01

    It has been found that the penetration of vortices into a weak pinning crystal is governed by a geometrical barrier and they form a dome-shaped flux profile across the crystal. Using the powerful magneto-optical technique, we investigated this geometrical barrier in a high-purity Bi2Sr2CaCu2O8+x single-crystal platelet. Our results show that over the temperature range 20-70 K the dome-shaped profile is observed. Also, the influences of the edge shape and the roughness on the geometrical barrier are discussed.

  12. Optical stretching of giant unilamellar vesicles with an integrated dual-beam optical trap.

    PubMed

    Solmaz, Mehmet E; Biswas, Roshni; Sankhagowit, Shalene; Thompson, James R; Mejia, Camilo A; Malmstadt, Noah; Povinelli, Michelle L

    2012-10-01

    We have integrated a dual-beam optical trap into a microfluidic platform and used it to study membrane mechanics in giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs). We demonstrate the trapping and stretching of GUVs and characterize the membrane response to a step stress. We then measure area strain as a function of applied stress to extract the bending modulus of the lipid bilayer in the low-tension regime.

  13. Nonreciprocal optical properties based on magneto-optical materials: n-InAs, GaAs and HgCdTe

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Wang, Han; Wu, Hao; Zhou, Jian-qiu

    2018-02-01

    Compared with reciprocal optical materials, nonreciprocal materials can break the time reversal and detailed balance due to special nonreciprocal effect, while how its characteristics performing on infrared wavelength have not been paid enough attention. In this paper, the optical properties of three magneto-optical materials was investigated in infrared band, that are n-InAs, GaAs, HgCdTe, based on Finite Difference Time Domain (FDTD) method. The equations of dielectric constant tensor are present and the effect of magnetic field intensity and frequency has been studied in detail. Additionally, the effect of incidence angle at positive and negative directions to the nonreciprocal absorptivity is also investigated. It is found that the nonreciprocal effect is obvious in infrared wavelength, and the nonreciprocal effect could adjust the absorption characteristic, thus be able to tune the absorption for the specific frequency of incident light. In addition to modeling the directional radiative properties at various angles of incidence, the absorption peaks of three materials under different incident angles are also calculated to understand the light absorption and to facilitate the optimal design of high-performance photovoltaic and optical instrument.

  14. Millikelvin cooling of an optically trapped microsphere in vacuum

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Tongcang; Kheifets, Simon; Raizen, Mark G.

    2011-07-01

    Cooling of micromechanical resonators towards the quantum mechanical ground state in their centre-of-mass motion has advanced rapidly in recent years. This work is an important step towards the creation of `Schrödinger cats', quantum superpositions of macroscopic observables, and the study of their destruction by decoherence. Here we report optical trapping of glass microspheres in vacuum with high oscillation frequencies, and cooling of the centre-of-mass motion from room temperature to a minimum temperature of about 1.5mK. This new system eliminates the physical contact inherent to clamped cantilevers, and can allow ground-state cooling from room temperature. More importantly, the optical trap can be switched off, allowing a microsphere to undergo free-fall in vacuum after cooling. This is ideal for studying the gravitational state reduction, a manifestation of the apparent conflict between general relativity and quantum mechanics. A cooled optically trapped object in vacuum can also be used to search for non-Newtonian gravity forces at small scales, measure the impact of a single air molecule and even produce Schrödinger cats of living organisms.

  15. Multiplexed fluctuation-dissipation-theorem calibration of optical tweezers inside living cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yan, Hao; Johnston, Jessica F.; Cahn, Sidney B.; King, Megan C.; Mochrie, Simon G. J.

    2017-11-01

    In order to apply optical tweezers-based force measurements within an uncharacterized viscoelastic medium such as the cytoplasm of a living cell, a quantitative calibration method that may be applied in this complex environment is needed. We describe an improved version of the fluctuation-dissipation-theorem calibration method, which has been developed to perform in situ calibration in viscoelastic media without prior knowledge of the trapped object. Using this calibration procedure, it is possible to extract values of the medium's viscoelastic moduli as well as the force constant describing the optical trap. To demonstrate our method, we calibrate an optical trap in water, in polyethylene oxide solutions of different concentrations, and inside living fission yeast (S. pombe).

  16. Improved atom number with a dual color magneto—optical trap

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cao, Qiang; Luo, Xin-Yu; Gao, Kui-Yi; Wang, Xiao-Rui; Chen, Dong-Min; Wang, Ru-Quan

    2012-04-01

    We demonstrate a novel dual color magneto—optical trap (MOT), which uses two sets of overlapping laser beams to cool and trap 87Rb atoms. The volume of cold cloud in the dual color MOT is strongly dependent on the frequency difference of the laser beams and can be significantly larger than that in the normal MOT with single frequency MOT beams. Our experiment shows that the dual color MOT has the same loading rate as the normal MOT, but much longer loading time, leading to threefold increase in the number of trapped atoms. This indicates that the larger number is caused by reduced light induced loss. The dual color MOT is very useful in experiments where both high vacuum level and large atom number are required, such as single chamber quantum memory and Bose—Einstein condensation (BEC) experiments. Compared to the popular dark spontaneous-force optical trap (dark SPOT) technique, our approach is technically simpler and more suitable to low power laser systems.

  17. Magneto-reactance based detection of MnO nanoparticle-embedded Lewis lung carcinoma cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Devkota, J.; Howell, M.; Mukherjee, P.; Srikanth, H.; Mohapatra, S.; Phan, M. H.

    2015-05-01

    We demonstrate the capacity of detecting magnetically weak manganese oxide (MnO) nanoparticles and the Lewis lung carcinoma (LLC) cancer cells that have taken up these nanoparticles using a novel biosensor based on the magneto-reactance (MX) effect of a soft ferromagnetic amorphous ribbon with a microhole-patterned surface. While the magnetic moment of the MnO nanoparticles is relatively small, and a magneto-impedance based sensor fails to detect them in solution (0.05 mg/ml manganese oxide lipid micellar nanoparticles) and inside cells at low concentrations (8.25 × 104 cells/ml), the detection of these nanoparticles and the LLC cells containing them is achieved with the MX-based sensor, which, respectively, reaches the detection sensitivity of ˜3.6% and 2.8% as compared to the blank cells. Since the MnO nanoparticles are a promising contrast agent for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of lung cells, the MX-based biosensing technique can be developed as a pre-detection method for MRI of lung cancer cells.

  18. Electro-optic deflectors deliver advantages over acousto-optical deflectors in a high resolution, ultra-fast force-clamp optical trap.

    PubMed

    Woody, Michael S; Capitanio, Marco; Ostap, E Michael; Goldman, Yale E

    2018-04-30

    We characterized experimental artifacts arising from the non-linear response of acousto-optical deflectors (AODs) in an ultra-fast force-clamp optical trap and have shown that using electro-optical deflectors (EODs) instead eliminates these artifacts. We give an example of the effects of these artifacts in our ultra-fast force clamp studies of the interaction of myosin with actin filaments. The experimental setup, based on the concept of Capitanio et al. [Nat. Methods 9, 1013-1019 (2012)] utilizes a bead-actin-bead dumbbell held in two force-clamped optical traps which apply a load to the dumbbell to move it at a constant velocity. When myosin binds to actin, the filament motion stops quickly as the total force from the optical traps is transferred to the actomyosin attachment. We found that in our setup, AODs were unsuitable for beam steering due to non-linear variations in beam intensity and deflection angle as a function of driving frequency, likely caused by low-amplitude standing acoustic waves in the deflectors. These aberrations caused instability in the force feedback loops leading to artifactual jumps in the trap position. We demonstrate that beam steering with EODs improves the performance of our instrument. Combining the superior beam-steering capability of the EODs, force acquisition via back-focal-plane interferometry, and dual high-speed FPGA-based feedback loops, we apply precise and constant loads to study the dynamics of interactions between actin and myosin. The same concept applies to studies of other biomolecular interactions.

  19. Broadband enhancement of dielectric light trapping nanostructure used in ultra-thin solar cells

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Yang, Dong; Xu, Zhaopeng; Bian, Fei; Wang, Haiyan; Wang, Jiazhuang; Sun, Lu

    2018-03-01

    A dielectric fishnet nanostructure is designed to increase the light trapping capability of ultra-thin solar cells. The complex performance of ultra-thin cells such as the optical response and electrical response are fully quantified in simulation through a complete optoelectronic investigation. The results show that the optimized light trapping nanostructure can enhances the electromagnetic resonance in active layer then lead to extraordinary enhancement of both absorption and light-conversion capabilities in the solar cell. The short-circuit current density increases by 49.46% from 9.40 mA/cm2 to 14.05 mA/cm2 and light-conversion efficiency increases by 51.84% from 9.51% to 14.44% compared to the benchmark, a solar cell with an ITO-GaAs-Ag structure.

  20. A versatile electrostatic trap with open optical access

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Li, Sheng-Qiang; Yin, Jian-Ping

    2018-04-01

    A versatile electrostatic trap with open optical access for cold polar molecules in weak-field-seeking state is proposed in this paper. The trap is composed of a pair of disk electrodes and a hexapole. With the help of a finite element software, the spatial distribution of the electrostatic field is calculated. The results indicate that a three-dimensional closed electrostatic trap is formed. Taking ND3 molecules as an example, the dynamic process of loading and trapping is simulated. The results show that when the velocity of the molecular beam is 10 m/s and the loading time is 0.9964 ms, the maximum loading efficiency reaches 94.25% and the temperature of the trapped molecules reaches about 30.3 mK. A single well can be split into two wells, which is of significant importance to the precision measurement and interference of matter waves. This scheme, in addition, can be further miniaturized to construct one-dimensional, two-dimensional, and three-dimensional spatial electrostatic lattices.

  1. Faraday effect in hybrid magneto-plasmonic photonic crystals.

    PubMed

    Caballero, B; García-Martín, A; Cuevas, J C

    2015-08-24

    We present a theoretical study of the Faraday effect in hybrid magneto-plasmonic crystals that consist of Au-Co-Au perforated membranes with a periodic array of sub-wavelength holes. We show that in these hybrid systems the interplay between the extraordinary optical transmission and the magneto-optical activity leads to a resonant enhancement of the Faraday rotation, as compared to purely ferromagnetic membranes. In particular, we determine the geometrical parameters for which this enhancement is optimized and show that the inclusion of a noble metal like Au dramatically increases the Faraday rotation over a broad bandwidth. Moreover, we show that the analysis of the Faraday rotation in these periodically perforated membranes provides a further insight into the origin of the extraordinary optical transmission.

  2. Optical stretching of giant unilamellar vesicles with an integrated dual-beam optical trap

    PubMed Central

    Solmaz, Mehmet E.; Biswas, Roshni; Sankhagowit, Shalene; Thompson, James R.; Mejia, Camilo A.; Malmstadt, Noah; Povinelli, Michelle L.

    2012-01-01

    We have integrated a dual-beam optical trap into a microfluidic platform and used it to study membrane mechanics in giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs). We demonstrate the trapping and stretching of GUVs and characterize the membrane response to a step stress. We then measure area strain as a function of applied stress to extract the bending modulus of the lipid bilayer in the low-tension regime. PMID:23082284

  3. Magneto-optical investigation of MgSO3·6H2O with polarized light

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Petkova, P.

    2017-10-01

    The crystals of magnesium sulphite hexahydrate (MgSO3·6H2O) belong to point group C3 (no center of symmetry). They possess gyrotropy and nonlinear optical properties. The refractive index no and ne, the angle of Faraday rotation φ(λ), the Verdet constant V(λ), the magneto-optic anomaly factor γ(λ) and the density of oscillators N of MgSO3·6H2O single crystals have been studied in the present work. The investigations were carried out in the spectral range 300 - 800 nm with linear polarized light E ⃗ ⊥ c ̅ , E ⃗ | | c ̅ (c ̅ is the optical axis of MgSO3·6H2O) propagated in the direction (10 1 ̅ 0) .

  4. Raman spectra and optical trapping of highly refractive and nontransparent particles

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Xie, Changan; Li, Yong-qing

    2002-08-01

    We measured the Raman spectra of single optically trapped highly refractive and nontransparent microscopic particles suspended in a liquid using an inverted confocal laser-tweezers-Raman-spectroscopy system. A low-power diode-laser beam of TEM00 mode was used both for optical trapping and Raman excitation of refractive, absorptive, and reflective metal particles. To form a stable trap for a nontransparent particle, the beam focus was located near the top of the particle and the particle was pushed against a glass plate by the axial repulsive force. Raman spectra from single micron-sized crystals with high index of refraction including silicon, germanium, and KNbO3, and from absorptive particles of black and color paints were recorded. Surface-enhanced Raman scattering of R6G and phenylalanine molecules absorbed on the surface of a trapped cluster of silver particles was also demonstrated.

  5. Stability of aerosol droplets in Bessel beam optical traps under constant and pulsed external forces

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    David, Grégory; Esat, Kıvanç; Hartweg, Sebastian; Cremer, Johannes; Chasovskikh, Egor; Signorell, Ruth

    2015-04-01

    We report on the dynamics of aerosol droplets in optical traps under the influence of additional constant and pulsed external forces. Experimental results are compared with simulations of the three-dimensional droplet dynamics for two types of optical traps, the counter-propagating Bessel beam (CPBB) trap and the quadruple Bessel beam (QBB) trap. Under the influence of a constant gas flow (constant external force), the QBB trap is found to be more stable compared with the CPBB trap. By contrast, under pulsed laser excitation with laser pulse durations of nanoseconds (pulsed external force), the type of trap is of minor importance for the droplet stability. It typically needs pulsed laser forces that are several orders of magnitude higher than the optical forces to induce escape of the droplet from the trap. If the droplet strongly absorbs the pulsed laser light, these escape forces can be strongly reduced. The lower stability of absorbing droplets is a result of secondary thermal processes that cause droplet escape.

  6. Stability of aerosol droplets in Bessel beam optical traps under constant and pulsed external forces.

    PubMed

    David, Grégory; Esat, Kıvanç; Hartweg, Sebastian; Cremer, Johannes; Chasovskikh, Egor; Signorell, Ruth

    2015-04-21

    We report on the dynamics of aerosol droplets in optical traps under the influence of additional constant and pulsed external forces. Experimental results are compared with simulations of the three-dimensional droplet dynamics for two types of optical traps, the counter-propagating Bessel beam (CPBB) trap and the quadruple Bessel beam (QBB) trap. Under the influence of a constant gas flow (constant external force), the QBB trap is found to be more stable compared with the CPBB trap. By contrast, under pulsed laser excitation with laser pulse durations of nanoseconds (pulsed external force), the type of trap is of minor importance for the droplet stability. It typically needs pulsed laser forces that are several orders of magnitude higher than the optical forces to induce escape of the droplet from the trap. If the droplet strongly absorbs the pulsed laser light, these escape forces can be strongly reduced. The lower stability of absorbing droplets is a result of secondary thermal processes that cause droplet escape.

  7. Tunnel Magneto Resistance of Fe/Insulator/Fe

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Aryee, Dennis; Seifu, Dereje

    Tri-layer thin films of Fe/Insulator/Fe were synthesized using magnetron DC/ RF sputtering with MgO insulator and Bi2Te3 topological insulators as middle buffer layer. The multi-layered samples thus produced were studied using in-house built magneto-optic Kerr effect (MOKE) instrument, vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM), torque magnetometer (TMM), AFM, MFM, and magneto-resistance (MR). This system, that is Fe/Insulator/Fe on MgO(100) substrate, is a well-known tunnel magneto resistance (TMR) structure often used in magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) devices. TMR effect is a method by which MTJs are used in developing magneto-resistive random access memory (MRAM), magnetic sensors, and novel logic devices. The main purpose behind this research is to measure the magnetic anisotropy of Fe/Insulator /Fe structure and correlate it to magneto-resistance. In this presentation, we will present results from MOKE, VSM, TMM, AFM, MFM, and MR studies of Fe/Insulator/Fe on MgO(100). We would like to acknowledge support by NSF-MRI-DMR-1337339.

  8. Parallel Optical Random Access Memory (PORAM)

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Alphonse, G. A.

    1989-01-01

    It is shown that the need to minimize component count, power and size, and to maximize packing density require a parallel optical random access memory to be designed in a two-level hierarchy: a modular level and an interconnect level. Three module designs are proposed, in the order of research and development requirements. The first uses state-of-the-art components, including individually addressed laser diode arrays, acousto-optic (AO) deflectors and magneto-optic (MO) storage medium, aimed at moderate size, moderate power, and high packing density. The next design level uses an electron-trapping (ET) medium to reduce optical power requirements. The third design uses a beam-steering grating surface emitter (GSE) array to reduce size further and minimize the number of components.

  9. Non-contact optical sensor for detection of glucose concentration using a magneto-optic effect

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Ozana, Nisan; Beiderman, Yevgeny; Anand, Arun; Javidi, Baharam; Polani, Sagi; Schwarz, Ariel; Shemer, Amir; García, Javier; Zalevsky, Zeev

    2016-03-01

    In this paper we aim to experimentally verify a speckle based technique for non-contact measurement of glucose concentration in blood stream while the vision for the final device aims to contain a single wristwatch-style device containing an AC (alternating) electro-magnet generated by a solenoid, a laser and a camera. The experiments presented in work are performed in-vitro in order to verify the effects that are responsible for the operation principle. When a glucose substance is inserted into a solenoid generating an alternating magnetic field it exhibits Faraday rotation which affects the temporal changes of the secondary speckle patterns distribution. The temporal frequency resulting from the AC magnetic field was found to have a lock-in amplification role which increased the observability of the relatively small magneto-optic effect. Experimental results to support the proposed concept are presented.

  10. Single-cell optoporation and transfection using femtosecond laser and optical tweezers.

    PubMed

    Waleed, Muhammad; Hwang, Sun-Uk; Kim, Jung-Dae; Shabbir, Irfan; Shin, Sang-Mo; Lee, Yong-Gu

    2013-01-01

    In this paper, we demonstrate a new single-cell optoporation and transfection technique using a femtosecond Gaussian laser beam and optical tweezers. Tightly focused near-infrared (NIR) femtosecond laser pulse was employed to transiently perforate the cellular membrane at a single point in MCF-7 cancer cells. A distinct technique was developed by trapping the microparticle using optical tweezers to focus the femtosecond laser precisely on the cell membrane to puncture it. Subsequently, an external gene was introduced in the cell by trapping and inserting the same plasmid-coated microparticle into the optoporated cell using optical tweezers. Various experimental parameters such as femtosecond laser exposure power, exposure time, puncture hole size, exact focusing of the femtosecond laser on the cell membrane, and cell healing time were closely analyzed to create the optimal conditions for cell viability. Following the insertion of plasmid-coated microparticles in the cell, the targeted cells exhibited green fluorescent protein (GFP) under the fluorescent microscope, hence confirming successful transfection into the cell. This new optoporation and transfection technique maximizes the level of selectivity and control over the targeted cell, and this may be a breakthrough method through which to induce controllable genetic changes in the cell.

  11. Single molecule RNA folding studied with optical trapping

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Vieregg, Jeffrey Robert

    The RNA folding problem (predicting the equilibrium structure and folding pathway of an RNA molecule from its sequence) is one of the classic problems of biophysics. Recent discoveries of many new functions for RNA have increased its importance, and new instrumental techniques have provided new ways to characterize molecular behavior. In particular, optical trapping (optical tweezers) allows controlled mechanical force to be applied to single RNA molecules while their end-to-end extension is monitored in real time. This enables characterization of RNA folding dynamics at a level unreachable by traditional bulk methods. Furthermore, recent advances in statistical mechanics make it possible to recover equilibrium quantities such as free energy from reactions which occur away from equilibrium. This dissertation describes the application of optical trapping and non-equilibrium statistical mechanics to quantitatively characterize folding of RNA secondary structures. By measuring the folding free energy of several specially designed hairpins in solutions containing various amounts of sodium and potassium, we were able to determine that RNA secondary structure thermodynamics depends not only on monovalent cation concentration but also surprisingly, on species. We also investigated the temperature dependence of hairpin folding thermodynamics and kinetics, which provided a direct measurement of enthalpy and entropy for RNA folding at physiological temperatures. We found that the folding pathway was quite sensitive to both salt and temperature, as measured by the folding success rate of a biologically important hairpin from the HIV-1 viral genome. Finally, I discuss modeling of force-induced RNA folding and unfolding, as well as a series of efforts which have dramatically improved the performance of our optical trapping instrument.

  12. Magneto-optical relaxation measurements for the characterization of biomolecular interactions

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Aurich, K.; Glöckl, G.; Romanus, E.; Weber, P.; Nagel, S.; Weitschies, W.

    2006-09-01

    Measurements of the magneto-optical relaxation of ferrofluids (MORFF) were applied as a novel homogeneous immunoassay for the investigation of biomolecular interactions. The technique is based on magnetic nanoparticles (MNP) functionalized with antibodies. The relaxation time of the optical birefringence that occurs when a pulsed magnetic field is applied to the nanoparticle suspension depends on the particle size. This enables the detection of particle aggregates formed after the addition of the antigen coupling partner. MORFF size measurements on the original ferrofluid and its fractions obtained by magnetic fractionation are comparable with results from other methods such as atomic force microscopy and photon correlation spectroscopy. In kinetic studies, the binding properties of five antigens and their polyclonal antibodies were investigated: human immunoglobulin G (hIgG), human immunoglobulin M (hIgM), human Eotaxin (hEotaxin), human carcinoembryonic antigen (hCEA), and human insulin (hInsulin). The enlargement of the relaxation time observed during the coupling experiments is expressed in terms of a size distribution function, which includes MNP monomers as well as aggregates. The kinetic process can be described by a model of stepwise polymerization. The kinetic parameters obtained are compared to results of surface plasmon resonance measurements.

  13. Cost effective flat plate photovoltaic modules using light trapping

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Bain, C. N.; Gordon, B. A.; Knasel, T. M.; Malinowski, R. L.

    1981-01-01

    Work in optical trapping in 'thick films' is described to form a design guide for photovoltaic engineers. A thick optical film can trap light by diffusive reflection and total internal reflection. Light can be propagated reasonably long distances compared with layer thicknesses by this technique. This makes it possible to conduct light from inter-cell and intra-cell areas now not used in photovoltaic modules onto active cell areas.

  14. Probing orientation and rotation of red blood cells in optical tweezers by digital holographic microscopy

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Cardenas, Nelson; Yu, Lingfeng; Mohanty, Samarendra K.

    2011-03-01

    Interaction of red blood cells (RBC) with optical tweezers has been found to differ under varied physiological and pathological conditions as compared to its normal conditions. Earlier, we reported difference in rotation of trapped RBC in hypertonic conditions for detection of malaria infection. Disk-like RBC when trapped in optical tweezers get oriented in the vertical plane to maximize interaction with trapping beam. However, classical bright field, phase contrast or epifluorescence microscopy cannot confirm its orientation, thus leading to ambiguous conclusions such as folding of RBC during trapping by some researchers. Now, with use of digital holographic microscopy (DHM), we achieved high axial sensitivity that confirmed orientation of trapped red blood cell. Further, DHM enabled quantitative phase imaging of RBC under hypertonic condition. Dynamic changes of rotating RBC under optical tweezers at different trapping laser power were evaluated by the use of DHM. The deviation from linear dependence of rotation speed of RBC on laser power, was attributed towards deformation of RBC shape due to higher laser power (or speed).

  15. Magneto-photonic crystal microcavities based on magnetic nanoparticles embedded in Silica matrix

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hocini, Abdesselam; Moukhtari, Riad; Khedrouche, Djamel; Kahlouche, Ahmed; Zamani, Mehdi

    2017-02-01

    Using the three-dimensional finite difference time domain method (3D FDTD) with perfectly matched layers (PML), optical and magneto-optical properties of two-dimensional magneto-photonic crystals micro-cavity is studied. This micro-cavity is fabricated by SiO2/ZrO2 or SiO2/TiO2 matrix doped with magnetic nanoparticles, in which the refractive index varied in the range of 1.51-1.58. We demonstrate that the Q factor for the designed cavity increases as the refractive index increases, and we find that the Q factor decreases as the volume fraction VF% due to off-diagonal elements increases. These magnetic microcavities may serve as a fundamental structure in a variety of ultra compact magneto photonic devices such as optical isolators, circulators and modulators in the future.

  16. Magneto-optical studies of SrGa{sub 0.7} Co{sub 0.3} O{sub 3−δ} perovskite thin films with embedded cobalt nanoparticles

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Veis, M., E-mail: veis@karlov.mff.cuni.cz; Zahradnik, M.; Ohnoutek, L.

    2015-05-07

    Sr(Ga{sub 0.7} Co{sub 0.3})O{sub 3−δ}/Co perovskite/metal thin films have been systematically studied by means of Faraday and Kerr magneto-optical spectroscopies. The samples were prepared by pulsed laser deposition on (001) (LaAlO{sub 3}) {sub 0.3}(Sr{sub 2}AlTaO{sub 6}) {sub 0.7} (LSAT) and Si substrates, and grew as a perovskite matrix containing approximately 6% by volume of embedded metallic Co nanoparticles with diameter less than 20 nm, which were distributed throughout the film and at the film-substrate interface. The film thickness ranged from 130 to 310 nm. The perovskite matrix was single crystal on LSAT and polycrystalline on Si. The magneto-optical spectroscopy was carried out in bothmore » Faraday and Kerr configurations in the photon energy range from 0.5 to 5 eV in magnetic fields sufficient for sample saturation, showing a strong thickness dependence of the magneto-optical effect. This dependence was attributed to the different metallic Co content, nanoparticle size, and accumulation at the film-substrate interface.« less

  17. Terahertz magneto-optical spectroscopy of a two-dimensional hole gas

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Kamaraju, N., E-mail: nkamaraju@lanl.gov; Taylor, A. J.; Prasankumar, R. P., E-mail: rpprasan@lanl.gov

    2015-01-19

    Two-dimensional hole gases (2DHGs) have attracted recent attention for their unique quantum physics and potential applications in areas including spintronics and quantum computing. However, their properties remain relatively unexplored, motivating the use of different techniques to study them. We used terahertz magneto-optical spectroscopy to investigate the cyclotron resonance frequency in a high mobility 2DHG, revealing a nonlinear dependence on the applied magnetic field. This is shown to be due to the complex non-parabolic valence band structure of the 2DHG, as verified by multiband Landau level calculations. We also find that impurity scattering dominates cyclotron resonance decay in the 2DHG, inmore » contrast with the dominance of superradiant damping in two-dimensional electron gases. Our results shed light on the properties of 2DHGs, motivating further studies of these unique 2D nanosystems.« less

  18. Loading an Optical Trap with Diamond Nanocrystals Containing Nitrogen-Vacancy Centers from a Surface

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Hsu, Jen-Feng; Ji, Peng; Dutt, M. V. Gurudev; D'Urso, Brian R.

    2015-03-01

    We present a simple and effective method of loading particles into an optical trap. Our primary application of this method is loading photoluminescent material, such as diamond nanocrystals containing nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers, for coupling the mechanical motion of the trapped crystal with the spin of the NV centers. Highly absorptive material at the trapping laser frequency, such as tartrazine dye, is used as media to attach nanodiamonds and burn into a cloud of air-borne particles as the material is swept near the trapping laser focus on a glass slide. Particles are then trapped with the laser used for burning or transferred to a second laser trap at a different wavelength. Evidence of successful loading diamond nanocrystals into the trap presented includes high sensitivity of the photoluminecscence (PL) to the excitation laser and the PL spectra of the optically trapped particles

  19. Computer simulation on the collision-sticking dynamics of two colloidal particles in an optical trap.

    PubMed

    Xu, Shenghua; Sun, Zhiwei

    2007-04-14

    Collisions of a particle pair induced by optical tweezers have been employed to study colloidal stability. In order to deepen insights regarding the collision-sticking dynamics of a particle pair in the optical trap that were observed in experimental approaches at the particle level, the authors carry out a Brownian dynamics simulation. In the simulation, various contributing factors, including the Derjaguin-Landau-Verwey-Overbeek interaction of particles, hydrodynamic interactions, optical trapping forces on the two particles, and the Brownian motion, were all taken into account. The simulation reproduces the tendencies of the accumulated sticking probability during the trapping duration for the trapped particle pair described in our previous study and provides an explanation for why the two entangled particles in the trap experience two different statuses.

  20. Coherent all-optical control of ultracold atoms arrays in permanent magnetic traps.

    PubMed

    Abdelrahman, Ahmed; Mukai, Tetsuya; Häffner, Hartmut; Byrnes, Tim

    2014-02-10

    We propose a hybrid architecture for quantum information processing based on magnetically trapped ultracold atoms coupled via optical fields. The ultracold atoms, which can be either Bose-Einstein condensates or ensembles, are trapped in permanent magnetic traps and are placed in microcavities, connected by silica based waveguides on an atom chip structure. At each trapping center, the ultracold atoms form spin coherent states, serving as a quantum memory. An all-optical scheme is used to initialize, measure and perform a universal set of quantum gates on the single and two spin-coherent states where entanglement can be generated addressably between spatially separated trapped ultracold atoms. This allows for universal quantum operations on the spin coherent state quantum memories. We give detailed derivations of the composite cavity system mediated by a silica waveguide as well as the control scheme. Estimates for the necessary experimental conditions for a working hybrid device are given.

  1. Single-cell adhesion probed in-situ using optical tweezers: A case study with Saccharomyces cerevisiae

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Castelain, Mickaël; Rouxhet, Paul G.; Pignon, Frédéric; Magnin, Albert; Piau, Jean-Michel

    2012-06-01

    A facile method of using optical trapping to measure cell adhesion forces is presented and applied to the adhesion of Saccharomyces cerevisiae on glass, in contact with solutions of different compositions. Trapping yeast cells with optical tweezers (OT) is not perturbed by cell wall deformation or cell deviation from a spherical shape. The trapping force calibration requires correction not only for the hydrodynamic effect of the neighboring wall but also for spherical aberrations affecting the focal volume and the trap stiffness. Yeast cells trapped for up to 5 h were still able to undergo budding but showed an increase of doubling time. The proportion of adhering cells showed the expected variation according to the solution composition. The detachment force varied in the same way. This observation and the fact that the detachment stress was exerted parallel to the substrate surface point to the role of interactions involving solvated macromolecules. Both the proportion of adhering cells and the removal force showed a distribution which, in our experimental conditions, must be attributed to a heterogeneity of surface properties at the cell level or at the subcellular scale. As compared with magnetic tweezers, atomic force microscopy, and more conventional ways of studying cell adhesion (shear-flow cells), OT present several advantages that are emphasized in this paper.

  2. Stability of aerosol droplets in Bessel beam optical traps under constant and pulsed external forces

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    David, Grégory; Esat, Kıvanç; Hartweg, Sebastian

    We report on the dynamics of aerosol droplets in optical traps under the influence of additional constant and pulsed external forces. Experimental results are compared with simulations of the three-dimensional droplet dynamics for two types of optical traps, the counter-propagating Bessel beam (CPBB) trap and the quadruple Bessel beam (QBB) trap. Under the influence of a constant gas flow (constant external force), the QBB trap is found to be more stable compared with the CPBB trap. By contrast, under pulsed laser excitation with laser pulse durations of nanoseconds (pulsed external force), the type of trap is of minor importance formore » the droplet stability. It typically needs pulsed laser forces that are several orders of magnitude higher than the optical forces to induce escape of the droplet from the trap. If the droplet strongly absorbs the pulsed laser light, these escape forces can be strongly reduced. The lower stability of absorbing droplets is a result of secondary thermal processes that cause droplet escape.« less

  3. Radio-frequency Electrometry Using Rydberg Atoms in Vapor Cells: Towards the Shot Noise Limit

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Kumar, Santosh; Fan, Haoquan; Jahangiri, Akbar; Kuebler, Harald; Shaffer, James P.; 5. Physikalisches Institut, Universitat Stuttgart, Germany Collaboration

    2016-05-01

    Rydberg atoms are a promising candidate for radio frequency (RF) electric field sensing. Our method uses electromagnetically induced transparency with Rydberg atoms in vapor cells to read out the effect that the RF electric field has on the Rydberg atoms. The method has the potential for high sensitivity (pV cm-1 Hz- 1 / 2) and can be self-calibrated. Some of the main factors limiting the sensitivity of RF electric field sensing from reaching the shot noise limit are the residual Doppler effect and the sensitivity of the optical read-out using the probe laser. We present progress on overcoming the residual Doppler effect by using a new multi-photon scheme and reaching the shot noise detection limit using frequency modulated spectroscopy. Our experiments also show promise for studying quantum optical effects such as superradiance in vapor cells using Rydberg atoms. This work is supported by DARPA, ARO, and NRO.

  4. Dielectrophoretic lab-on-CMOS platform for trapping and manipulation of cells.

    PubMed

    Park, Kyoungchul; Kabiri, Shideh; Sonkusale, Sameer

    2016-02-01

    Trapping and manipulation of cells are essential operations in numerous studies in biology and life sciences. We discuss the realization of a Lab-on-a-Chip platform for dielectrophoretic trapping and repositioning of cells and microorganisms on a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) technology, which we define here as Lab-on-CMOS (LoC). The LoC platform is based on dielectrophoresis (DEP) which is the force experienced by any dielectric particle including biological entities in non-uniform AC electrical field. DEP force depends on the permittivity of the cells, its size and shape and also on the permittivity of the medium and therefore it enables selective targeting of cells based on their phenotype. In this paper, we address an important matter that of electrode design for DEP for which we propose a three-dimensional (3D) octapole geometry to create highly confined electric fields for trapping and manipulation of cells. Conventional DEP-based platforms are implemented stand-alone on glass, silicon or polymers connected to external infrastructure for electronics and optics, making it bulky and expensive. In this paper, the use of CMOS as a platform provides a pathway to truly miniaturized lab-on-CMOS or LoC platform, where DEP electrodes are designed using built-in multiple metal layers of the CMOS process for effective trapping of cells, with built-in electronics for in-situ impedance monitoring of the cell position. We present electromagnetic simulation results of DEP force for this unique 3D octapole geometry on CMOS. Experimental results with yeast cells validate the design. These preliminary results indicate the promise of using CMOS technology for truly compact miniaturized lab-on-chip platform for cell biotechnology applications.

  5. Graphene-oxide-coated interferometric optical microfiber ethanol vapor sensor.

    PubMed

    Zhang, Jingle; Fu, Haiwei; Ding, Jijun; Zhang, Min; Zhu, Yi

    2017-11-01

    A graphene-oxide-coated interferometric microfiber-sensor-based polarization-maintaining optical fiber is proposed for highly sensitive detecting for ethanol vapor concentration at room temperature in this paper. The strong sensing capability of the sensor to detect the concentration of ethanol vapor is demonstrated, taking advantage of the evanescent field enhancement and gas absorption of a graphene-oxide-coated microfiber. The transmission spectrum of the sensor varies with concentrations of ethanol vapor, and the redshift of the transmission spectrum has been analyzed for the concentration range from 0 to 80 ppm with sensitivity as high as 0.138 nm/ppm. The coated graphene oxide layer induces the evanescent field enhancement and gas selective adsorption, which improves sensitivity and selectivity of the microfiber gas sensor for ethanol vapor detection.

  6. Stability and instability for low refractive-index-contrast particle trapping in a dual-beam optical trap.

    PubMed

    Huff, Alison; Melton, Charles N; Hirst, Linda S; Sharping, Jay E

    2015-10-01

    A dual-beam optical trap is used to trap and manipulate dielectric particles. When the refractive index of these particles is comparable to that of the surrounding medium, equilibrium trapping locations within the system shift from stable to unstable depending on fiber separation and particle size. This is due to to the relationship between gradient and scattering forces. We experimentally and computationally study the transitions between stable and unstable trapping of poly(methyl methacrylate) beads for a range of parameters relevant to experimental setups involving giant unilamellar vesicles. We present stability maps for various fiber separations and particle sizes, and find that careful attention to particle size and configuration is necessary to obtain reproducible quantitative results for soft matter stretching experiments.

  7. Stability and instability for low refractive-index-contrast particle trapping in a dual-beam optical trap

    PubMed Central

    Huff, Alison; Melton, Charles N.; Hirst, Linda S.; Sharping, Jay E.

    2015-01-01

    A dual-beam optical trap is used to trap and manipulate dielectric particles. When the refractive index of these particles is comparable to that of the surrounding medium, equilibrium trapping locations within the system shift from stable to unstable depending on fiber separation and particle size. This is due to to the relationship between gradient and scattering forces. We experimentally and computationally study the transitions between stable and unstable trapping of poly(methyl methacrylate) beads for a range of parameters relevant to experimental setups involving giant unilamellar vesicles. We present stability maps for various fiber separations and particle sizes, and find that careful attention to particle size and configuration is necessary to obtain reproducible quantitative results for soft matter stretching experiments. PMID:26504632

  8. Optical patterning of trapped charge in nitrogen-doped diamond

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Jayakumar, Harishankar; Henshaw, Jacob; Dhomkar, Siddharth; Pagliero, Daniela; Laraoui, Abdelghani; Manson, Neil B.; Albu, Remus; Doherty, Marcus W.; Meriles, Carlos A.

    2016-08-01

    The nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centre in diamond is emerging as a promising platform for solid-state quantum information processing and nanoscale metrology. Of interest in these applications is the manipulation of the NV charge, which can be attained by optical excitation. Here, we use two-colour optical microscopy to investigate the dynamics of NV photo-ionization, charge diffusion and trapping in type-1b diamond. We combine fixed-point laser excitation and scanning fluorescence imaging to locally alter the concentration of negatively charged NVs, and to subsequently probe the corresponding redistribution of charge. We uncover the formation of spatial patterns of trapped charge, which we qualitatively reproduce via a model of the interplay between photo-excited carriers and atomic defects. Further, by using the NV as a probe, we map the relative fraction of positively charged nitrogen on localized optical excitation. These observations may prove important to transporting quantum information between NVs or to developing three-dimensional, charge-based memories.

  9. Optical patterning of trapped charge in nitrogen-doped diamond.

    PubMed

    Jayakumar, Harishankar; Henshaw, Jacob; Dhomkar, Siddharth; Pagliero, Daniela; Laraoui, Abdelghani; Manson, Neil B; Albu, Remus; Doherty, Marcus W; Meriles, Carlos A

    2016-08-30

    The nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centre in diamond is emerging as a promising platform for solid-state quantum information processing and nanoscale metrology. Of interest in these applications is the manipulation of the NV charge, which can be attained by optical excitation. Here, we use two-colour optical microscopy to investigate the dynamics of NV photo-ionization, charge diffusion and trapping in type-1b diamond. We combine fixed-point laser excitation and scanning fluorescence imaging to locally alter the concentration of negatively charged NVs, and to subsequently probe the corresponding redistribution of charge. We uncover the formation of spatial patterns of trapped charge, which we qualitatively reproduce via a model of the interplay between photo-excited carriers and atomic defects. Further, by using the NV as a probe, we map the relative fraction of positively charged nitrogen on localized optical excitation. These observations may prove important to transporting quantum information between NVs or to developing three-dimensional, charge-based memories.

  10. Optical patterning of trapped charge in nitrogen-doped diamond

    PubMed Central

    Jayakumar, Harishankar; Henshaw, Jacob; Dhomkar, Siddharth; Pagliero, Daniela; Laraoui, Abdelghani; Manson, Neil B.; Albu, Remus; Doherty, Marcus W.; Meriles, Carlos A.

    2016-01-01

    The nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centre in diamond is emerging as a promising platform for solid-state quantum information processing and nanoscale metrology. Of interest in these applications is the manipulation of the NV charge, which can be attained by optical excitation. Here, we use two-colour optical microscopy to investigate the dynamics of NV photo-ionization, charge diffusion and trapping in type-1b diamond. We combine fixed-point laser excitation and scanning fluorescence imaging to locally alter the concentration of negatively charged NVs, and to subsequently probe the corresponding redistribution of charge. We uncover the formation of spatial patterns of trapped charge, which we qualitatively reproduce via a model of the interplay between photo-excited carriers and atomic defects. Further, by using the NV as a probe, we map the relative fraction of positively charged nitrogen on localized optical excitation. These observations may prove important to transporting quantum information between NVs or to developing three-dimensional, charge-based memories. PMID:27573190

  11. Suitable combination of noble/ferromagnetic metal multilayers for enhanced magneto-plasmonic biosensing.

    PubMed

    Regatos, David; Sepúlveda, Borja; Fariña, David; Carrascosa, Laura G; Lechuga, Laura M

    2011-04-25

    We present a theoretical and experimental study on the biosensing sensitivity of Au/Co/Au multilayers as transducers of the magneto-optic surface-plasmon-resonance (MOSPR) sensor. We demonstrate that the sensing response of these magneto-plasmonic (MP) transducers is a trade-off between the optical absorption and the magneto-optical activity, observing that the MP multilayer with larger MO effect does not provide the best sensing response. We show that it is possible to design highly-sensitive MP transducers able to largely surpass the limit of detection of the conventional surface-plasmon-resonance (SPR) sensor. This was proved comparing the biosensing performance of both sensors for the label-free detection of short DNA chains hybridization. For this purpose, we used and tested a novel label-free biofunctionalization protocol based on polyelectrolytes, which increases the resistance of MP transducers in aqueous environments.

  12. Fiber-Optic Gratings for Lidar Measurements of Water Vapor

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Vann, Leila B.; DeYoung, Russell J.

    2006-01-01

    Narrow-band filters in the form of phase-shifted Fabry-Perot Bragg gratings incorporated into optical fibers are being developed for differential-absorption lidar (DIAL) instruments used to measure concentrations of atmospheric water vapor. The basic idea is to measure the relative amounts of pulsed laser light scattered from the atmosphere at two nearly equal wavelengths, one of which coincides with an absorption spectral peak of water molecules and the other corresponding to no water vapor absorption. As part of the DIAL measurement process, the scattered light is made to pass through a filter on the way to a photodetector. Omitting other details of DIAL for the sake of brevity, what is required of the filter is to provide a stop band that: Surrounds the water-vapor spectral absorption peaks at a wavelength of 946 nm, Has a spectral width of at least a couple of nanometers, Contains a pass band preferably no wider than necessary to accommodate the 946.0003-nm-wavelength water vapor absorption peak [which has 8.47 pm full width at half maximum (FWHM)], and Contains another pass band at the slightly shorter wavelength of 945.9 nm, where there is scattering of light from aerosol particles but no absorption by water molecules. Whereas filters used heretofore in DIAL have had bandwidths of =300 pm, recent progress in the art of fiber-optic Bragg-grating filters has made it feasible to reduce bandwidths to less than or equal to 20 pm and thereby to reduce background noise. Another benefit of substituting fiber-optic Bragg-grating filters for those now in use would be significant reductions in the weights of DIAL instruments. Yet another advantage of fiber-optic Bragg-grating filters is that their transmission spectra can be shifted to longer wavelengths by heating or stretching: hence, it is envisioned that future DIAL instruments would contain devices for fine adjustment of transmission wavelengths through stretching or heating of fiber-optic Bragg-grating filters

  13. Research Studies on Advanced Optical Module/Head Designs for Optical Data Storage

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    1992-01-01

    Preprints are presented from the recent 1992 Optical Data Storage meeting in San Jose. The papers are divided into the following topical areas: Magneto-optical media (Modeling/design and fabrication/characterization/testing); Optical heads (holographic optical elements); and Optical heads (integrated optics). Some representative titles are as follow: Diffraction analysis and evaluation of several focus and track error detection schemes for magneto-optical disk systems; Proposal for massively parallel data storage system; Transfer function characteristics of super resolving systems; Modeling and measurement of a micro-optic beam deflector; Oxidation processes in magneto-optic and related materials; and A modal analysis of lamellar diffraction gratings in conical mountings.

  14. Towards lightweight and flexible high performance nanocrystalline silicon solar cells through light trapping and transport layers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Gray, Zachary R.

    This thesis investigates ways to enhance the efficiency of thin film solar cells through the application of both novel nano-element array light trapping architectures and nickel oxide hole transport/electron blocking layers. Experimental results independently demonstrate a 22% enhancement in short circuit current density (JSC) resulting from a nano-element array light trapping architecture and a ˜23% enhancement in fill factor (FF) and ˜16% enhancement in open circuit voltage (VOC) resulting from a nickel oxide transport layer. In each case, the overall efficiency of the device employing the light trapping or transport layer was superior to that of the corresponding control device. Since the efficiency of a solar cell scales with the product of JSC, FF, and VOC, it follows that the results of this thesis suggest high performance thin film solar cells can be realized in the event light trapping architectures and transport layers can be simultaneously optimized. The realizations of these performance enhancements stem from extensive process optimization for numerous light trapping and transport layer fabrication approaches. These approaches were guided by numerical modeling techniques which will also be discussed. Key developments in this thesis include (1) the fabrication of nano-element topographies conducive to light trapping using various fabrication approaches, (2) the deposition of defect free nc-Si:H onto structured topographies by switching from SiH4 to SiF 4 PECVD gas chemistry, and (3) the development of the atomic layer deposition (ALD) growth conditions for NiO. Keywords: light trapping, nano-element array, hole transport layer, electron blocking layer, nickel oxide, nanocrystalline silicon, aluminum doped zinc oxide, atomic layer deposition, plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition, electron beam lithography, ANSYS HFSS.

  15. Vapor-condensation-assisted optical microscopy for ultralong carbon nanotubes and other nanostructures.

    PubMed

    Wang, Jiangtao; Li, Tianyi; Xia, Bingyu; Jin, Xiang; Wei, Haoming; Wu, Wenyun; Wei, Yang; Wang, Jiaping; Liu, Peng; Zhang, Lina; Li, Qunqing; Fan, Shoushan; Jiang, Kaili

    2014-06-11

    Here we present a simple yet powerful approach for the imaging of nanostructures under an optical microscope with the help of vapor condensation on their surfaces. Supersaturated water vapor will first form a nanometer-sized water droplet on the condensation nuclei on the surface of nanostructures, and then the water droplet will grow bigger and scatter more light to make the outline of the nanostructure be visible under dark-field optical microscope. This vapor-condensation-assisted (VCA) optical microscopy is applicable to a variety of nanostructures from ultralong carbon nanotubes to functional groups, generating images with contrast coming from the difference in density of the condensation sites, and does not induce any impurities to the specimens. Moreover, this low-cost and efficient technique can be conveniently integrated with other facilities, such as Raman spectroscope and so forth, which will pave the way for widespread applications.

  16. Enhanced magneto-optical Kerr effect in rare earth substituted nanostructured cobalt ferrite thin film prepared by sol-gel method

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Avazpour, L.; Toroghinejad, M. R.; Shokrollahi, H.

    2016-11-01

    A series of rare-earth (RE)-doped nanocrystalline Cox RE(1-x) Fe2O4 (x = 0, 0.1, 0.2 and RE: Nd, Eu) thin films were prepared on silicon substrates by a sol-gel process, and the influences of different RE3+ ions on the microstructure, magnetism and polar magneto-optical Kerr effect of the deposited films were investigated. Also this research presents the optimization process of cobalt ferrite thin films deposited via spin coating, by studying their structural and morphological properties at different thicknesses (200, 350 nm) and various heat treatment temperatures 300-850 °C. Nanoparticulate polycrystalline thin film were formed with heat treatment above 400 °C but proper magnetic properties due to well crystallization of the film were achieved at about 650 °C. AFM results indicated that the deposited thin films were crack-free exhibiting a dense nanogranular structure. The root-mean square (RMS) roughness of the thin films was in the range of 0.2-3.2 nm. The results revealed that both of the magnetism and magneto optical Kerr (MOKE) spectra of Cox RE(1-x) Fe2O4 films could be mediated by doping with various RE ions. The Curie temperature of substituted samples was lower than pristine cobalt ferrite thin films. In MOKE spectra both dominant peaks were blue shifted with addition of RE ions. For low concentration dopant the inter-valence charge transfer related rotation was enhanced and for higher concentration dopant the crystal field rotation peak was enhanced. The MOKE enhancement for Eu3+ substituted samples was more than Nd3+ doped cobalt ferrite films. The enhanced MOKEs in nanocrystalline thin films might promise their applications for magneto-optical sensors in adopted wavelengths.

  17. Terahertz magneto-optical spectroscopy of a two-dimensional hole gas

    DOE PAGES

    Kamaraju, N.; Pan, W.; Ekenberg, U.; ...

    2015-01-21

    Two-dimensional hole gases (2DHGs) have attracted recent attention for their unique quantum physics and potential applications in areas including spintronics and quantum computing. However, their properties remain relatively unexplored, motivating the use of different techniques to study them. We used terahertz magneto-optical spectroscopy to investigate the cyclotron resonance frequency in a high mobility 2DHG, revealing a nonlinear dependence on the applied magnetic field. This is also shown to be due to the complex non-parabolic valence band structure of the 2DHG, as verified by multiband Landau level calculations. We also find that impurity scattering dominates cyclotron resonance decay in the 2DHG,more » in contrast with the dominance of superradiant damping in two-dimensional electron gases. Furthermore, these results shed light on the properties of 2DHGs, motivating further studies of these unique 2D nanosystems.« less

  18. Magnetic field effects on spectrally resolved lifetime of on-line oxygen monitoring using magneto-optic probes

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mermut, O.; Gallant, P.; Le Bouch, N.; Leclair, S.; Noiseux, I.; Vernon, M.; Morin, J.-F.; Diamond, K.; Patterson, M. S.; Samkoe, K.; Pogue, B.

    2009-02-01

    Multimodal agents that serve as both probes for contrast and light-activated effectors of cellular processes in diseased tissue were developed. These agents were introduced into multicellular tumor spheroids (3D tissue models) and in the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) of a chicken embryo. The luminescence decay was examined using a novel technique involving a spectrally-resolved fluorescence lifetime apparatus integrated with a weak electromagnet. A spectrallyresolved lifetime setup was used to identify magneto-optic species sensitive to magnetic field effects and distinguish from background emissions. We demonstrate that the applied magnetic fields can alter reaction rates and product distribution of some dyes detected by time- and spectrally-resolved luminescence changes. We will discuss the use of exogenous magneto-optical probes taken up in tumors to both induce phototoxicity, a process that is governed by complex and dynamically evolving mechanisms involving reactive oxygen species, and monitor treatment progress. The magnetic field enhancement, measured over a range of weak fields (0-300 mT) is correlated to oxygenation and may be used to monitor dynamic changes occurring due to oxygen consumption over the course of photodynamic therapy. Such online measurements provide the possibility to derive real-time information about response to treatment via monitoring magnetic field enhancement/suppression of the time-resolved, spectrally-resolved luminescence of the probe at the site of the treatment directly. Magnetic perturbation of lifetime can serve as a status reporter, providing optical feedback of oxygen-mediated treatments in situ and allowing for real-time adjustment of a phototherapy treatment plan.

  19. Light trapping in thin-film solar cells with randomly rough and hybrid textures.

    PubMed

    Kowalczewski, Piotr; Liscidini, Marco; Andreani, Lucio Claudio

    2013-09-09

    We study light-trapping in thin-film silicon solar cells with rough interfaces. We consider solar cells made of different materials (c-Si and μc-Si) to investigate the role of size and nature (direct/indirect) of the energy band gap in light trapping. By means of rigorous calculations we demonstrate that the Lambertian Limit of absorption can be obtained in a structure with an optimized rough interface. We gain insight into the light trapping mechanisms by analysing the optical properties of rough interfaces in terms of Angular Intensity Distribution (AID) and haze. Finally, we show the benefits of merging ordered and disordered photonic structures for light trapping by studying a hybrid interface, which is a combination of a rough interface and a diffraction grating. This approach gives a significant absorption enhancement for a roughness with a modest size of spatial features, assuring good electrical properties of the interface. All the structures presented in this work are compatible with present-day technologies, giving recent progress in fabrication of thin monocrystalline silicon films and nanoimprint lithography.

  20. A Surface-Coupled Optical Trap with 1-bp Precision via Active Stabilization

    PubMed Central

    Okoniewski, Stephen R.; Carter, Ashley R.; Perkins, Thomas T.

    2017-01-01

    Optical traps can measure bead motions with Å-scale precision. However, using this level of precision to infer 1-bp motion of molecular motors along DNA is difficult, since a variety of noise sources degrade instrumental stability. In this chapter, we detail how to improve instrumental stability by (i) minimizing laser pointing, mode, polarization, and intensity noise using an acousto-optical-modulator mediated feedback loop and (ii) minimizing sample motion relative to the optical trap using a 3-axis piezo-electric-stage mediated feedback loop. These active techniques play a critical role in achieving a surface stability of 1 Å in 3D over tens of seconds and a 1-bp stability and precision in a surface-coupled optical trap over a broad bandwidth (Δf = 0.03–2 Hz) at low force (6 pN). These active stabilization techniques can also aid other biophysical assays that would benefit from improved laser stability and/or Å-scale sample stability, such as atomic force microscopy and super-resolution imaging. PMID:27844426

  1. A Surface-Coupled Optical Trap with 1-bp Precision via Active Stabilization.

    PubMed

    Okoniewski, Stephen R; Carter, Ashley R; Perkins, Thomas T

    2017-01-01

    Optical traps can measure bead motions with Å-scale precision. However, using this level of precision to infer 1-bp motion of molecular motors along DNA is difficult, since a variety of noise sources degrade instrumental stability. In this chapter, we detail how to improve instrumental stability by (1) minimizing laser pointing, mode, polarization, and intensity noise using an acousto-optical-modulator mediated feedback loop and (2) minimizing sample motion relative to the optical trap using a three-axis piezo-electric-stage mediated feedback loop. These active techniques play a critical role in achieving a surface stability of 1 Å in 3D over tens of seconds and a 1-bp stability and precision in a surface-coupled optical trap over a broad bandwidth (Δf = 0.03-2 Hz) at low force (6 pN). These active stabilization techniques can also aid other biophysical assays that would benefit from improved laser stability and/or Å-scale sample stability, such as atomic force microscopy and super-resolution imaging.

  2. A heated vapor cell unit for dichroic atomic vapor laser lock in atomic rubidium.

    PubMed

    McCarron, Daniel J; Hughes, Ifan G; Tierney, Patrick; Cornish, Simon L

    2007-09-01

    The design and performance of a compact heated vapor cell unit for realizing a dichroic atomic vapor laser lock (DAVLL) for the D(2) transitions in atomic rubidium is described. A 5 cm long vapor cell is placed in a double-solenoid arrangement to produce the required magnetic field; the heat from the solenoid is used to increase the vapor pressure and correspondingly the DAVLL signal. We have characterized experimentally the dependence of important features of the DAVLL signal on magnetic field and cell temperature. For the weaker transitions both the amplitude and gradient of the signal are increased by an order of magnitude.

  3. Rotation of single live mammalian cells using dynamic holographic optical tweezers

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Bin Cao; Kelbauskas, Laimonas; Chan, Samantha; Shetty, Rishabh M.; Smith, Dean; Meldrum, Deirdre R.

    2017-05-01

    We report on a method for rotating single mammalian cells about an axis perpendicular to the optical system axis through the imaging plane using dynamic holographic optical tweezers (HOTs). Two optical traps are created on the opposite edges of a mammalian cell and are continuously transitioned through the imaging plane along the circumference of the cell in opposite directions, thus providing the torque to rotate the cell in a controlled fashion. The method enables a complete 360° rotation of live single mammalian cells with spherical or near-to spherical shape in 3D space, and represents a useful tool suitable for the single cell analysis field, including tomographic imaging.

  4. Optical Trapping and Manipulation in the Single- and Many-Body Limits

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Spalding, Gabriel

    2007-03-01

    Analysis of optical dipole/scattering forces can be done at a variety of levels, some of which are appropriate to the undergraduate curriculum. The addition of simple holographic techniques has extended the basic capabilities of optical tweezing, making it a more viable tool for the assembly of micro-systems and organization of specimens into user-defined structures. In 2D, we have demonstrated an approach that allows optical forces alone to assemble microparticles over macroscopic areas. 3D structures pose greater challenges, but also significant opportunities. Our early efforts at filling a 3D lattice of optical traps led to an appreciation for the dynamics of injected microparticle streams, which yield a surprisingly successful method of sorting or re- routing within microfludic environments. We will discuss the status of efforts using optical trapping to create static many-body structures (both simple and complex), as well as recent results on dynamic interactions. At the same time, some of these techniques have clear pedagogical value, as will be emphasized.

  5. Combining optical trapping in a microfluidic channel with simultaneous micro-Raman spectroscopy and motion detection

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lawton, Penelope F.; Saunter, Christopher D.; Girkin, John M.

    2014-03-01

    Since their invention by Ashkin optical tweezers have demonstrated their ability and versatility as a non-invasive tool for micromanipulation. One of the most useful additions to the basic optical tweezers system is micro-Raman spectroscopy, which permits highly sensitive analysis of single cells or particles. We report on the development of a dual laser system combining two spatial light modulators to holographically manipulate multiple traps (at 1064nm) whilst undertaking Raman spectroscopy using a 532nm laser. We can thus simultaneously trap multiple particles and record their Raman spectra, without perturbing the trapping system. The dual beam system is built around micro-fluidic channels where crystallisation of calcium carbonate occurs on polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) beads. The setup is designed to simulate at a microscopic level the reactions that occur on items in a dishwasher, where permanent filming of calcium carbonate on drinking glasses is a problem. Our system allows us to monitor crystal growth on trapped particles in which the Raman spectrum and changes in movement of the bead are recorded. Due to the expected low level of crystallisation on the bead surfaces this allows us to obtain results quickly and with high sensitivity. The long term goal is to study the development of filming on samples in-situ with the microfl.uidic system acting as a model dishwasher.

  6. Light trapping in thin film solar cells using photonic engineering device concepts

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Mutitu, James Gichuhi

    In this era of uncertainty concerning future energy solutions, strong reservations have arisen over the continued use and pursuit of fossil fuels and other conventional sources of energy. Moreover, there is currently a strong and global push for the implementation of stringent measures, in order to reduce the amount of green house gases emitted by every nation. As a consequence, there has emerged a sudden and frantic rush for new renewable energy solutions. In this world of renewable energy technologies is where we find photovoltaic (PV) technology today. However, as is, there are still many issues that need to be addressed before solar energy technologies become economically viable and available to all people, in every part of the world. This renewed interest in the development of solar electricity, has led to the advancement of new avenues that address the issues of cost and efficiency associated with PV. To this end, one of the prominent approaches being explored is thin film solar cell (TFSC) technology, which offers prospects of lower material costs and enables larger units of manufacture than conventional wafer based technology. However, TFSC technologies suffer from one major problem; they have lower efficiencies than conventional wafer based solar cell technologies. This lesser efficiency is based on a number of reasons, one of which is that with less material, there is less volume for the absorption of incident photons. This shortcoming leads to the need for optical light trapping; which is concerned with admitting the maximum amount of light into the solar cell and keeping the light within the structure for as long as possible. In this thesis, I present the fundamental scientific ideas, practice and methodology behind the application of photonic engineering device concepts to increase the light trapping capacity of thin film solar cells. In the introductory chapters, I develop the basic ideas behind light trapping in a sequential manner, where the effects

  7. Ultra-thin, light-trapping silicon solar cells

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Landis, Geoffrey A.

    1989-01-01

    Design concepts for ultra-thin (2 to 10 microns) high efficiency single-crystal silicon cells are discussed. Light trapping allows more light to be absorbed at a given thickness, or allows thinner cells of a given Jsc. Extremely thin cells require low surface recombination velocity at both surfaces, including the ohmic contacts. Reduction of surface recombination by growth of heterojunctions of ZnS and GaP on Si has been demonstrated. The effects of these improvements on AM0 efficiency is shown. The peak efficiency increases, and the optimum thickness decreases. Cells under 10 microns thickness can retain almost optimum power. The increase of absorptance due to light trapping is considered. This is not a problem if the light-trapping cells are sufficiently thin. Ultra-thin cells have high radiation tolerance. A 2 microns thick light-trapping cell remains over 18 percent efficient after the equivalent of 20 years in geosynchronous orbit. Including a 50 microns thick coverglass, the thin cells had specific power after irradiation over ten times higher than the baseline design.

  8. Microwave-optical two-photon excitation of Rydberg states

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Tate, D. A.; Gallagher, T. F.

    2018-03-01

    We report efficient microwave-optical two photon excitation of Rb Rydberg atoms in a magneto-optical trap. This approach allows the excitation of normally inaccessible states and provides a path toward excitation of high-angular-momentum states. The efficiency stems from the elimination of the Doppler width, the use of a narrow-band pulsed laser, and the enormous electric-dipole matrix element connecting the intermediate and final states of the transition. The excitation is efficient in spite of the low optical and microwave powers, of order 1 kW and 1 mW, respectively. This is an application of the large dipole coupling strengths between Rydberg states to achieve two-photon excitation of Rydberg atoms.

  9. Quantitative photothermal heating and cooling measurements of engineered nanoparticles in an optical trap

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Roder, Paden Bernard

    Laser tweezers and optical trapping has provided scientists and engineers a unique way to study the wealth of phenomena that materials exhibit at the micro- and nanoscale, much of which remains mysterious. Of particular interest is the interplay between light absorption and subsequent heat generation of laser-irradiated materials, especially due to recent interest in developing nanoscale materials for use as agents for photothermal cancer treatments. An introduction to optical trapping physics and laser tweezers are given in Chapter 1 and 2 of this thesis, respectively. The remaining chapters, summarized below, describe the theoretical basis of laser heating of one-dimensional nanostructures and experiments in which optically-trapped nanostructures are studied using techniques developed for a laser tweezer. In Chapter 3, we delve into the fundamentals of laser heating of one-dimensional materials by developing an analytical model of pulsed laser heating of uniform and tapered supported nanowires and compare calculations with experimental data to comment on the effects that the material's physical, optical, and thermal parameters have on its heating and cooling rates. We then consider closed-form analytical solutions for the temperature rise within infinite circular cylinders with nanometer-scale diameters irradiated at right angles by TM-polarized continuous-wave laser sources, which allows for analysis of laser-heated nanowires in a solvated environment. The infinite nanowire analysis will then be extended to the optical heating of laser-irradiated finite nanowires in the framework of a laser tweezer, which enables predictive capabilities and direct comparison with laser trapping experiments. An effective method for determining optically-trapped particle temperatures as well as the temperature gradient in the surrounding medium will be discussed in Chapter 4. By combining laser tweezer calibration techniques, forward-scattered light power spectrum analysis, and

  10. Single Particle Differentiation through 2D Optical Fiber Trapping and Back-Scattered Signal Statistical Analysis: An Exploratory Approach

    PubMed Central

    Ribeiro, Rita S. R.; Cunha, João P. S.; Rosa, Carla C.; Jorge, Pedro A. S.

    2018-01-01

    Recent trends on microbiology point out the urge to develop optical micro-tools with multifunctionalities such as simultaneous manipulation and sensing. Considering that miniaturization has been recognized as one of the most important paradigms of emerging sensing biotechnologies, optical fiber tools, including Optical Fiber Tweezers (OFTs), are suitable candidates for developing multifunctional small sensors for Medicine and Biology. OFTs are flexible and versatile optotools based on fibers with one extremity patterned to form a micro-lens. These are able to focus laser beams and exert forces onto microparticles strong enough (piconewtons) to trap and manipulate them. In this paper, through an exploratory analysis of a 45 features set, including time and frequency-domain parameters of the back-scattered signal of particles trapped by a polymeric lens, we created a novel single feature able to differentiate synthetic particles (PMMA and Polystyrene) from living yeasts cells. This single statistical feature can be useful for the development of label-free hybrid optical fiber sensors with applications in infectious diseases detection or cells sorting. It can also contribute, by revealing the most significant information that can be extracted from the scattered signal, to the development of a simpler method for particles characterization (in terms of composition, heterogeneity degree) than existent technologies. PMID:29495502

  11. Single Particle Differentiation through 2D Optical Fiber Trapping and Back-Scattered Signal Statistical Analysis: An Exploratory Approach.

    PubMed

    Paiva, Joana S; Ribeiro, Rita S R; Cunha, João P S; Rosa, Carla C; Jorge, Pedro A S

    2018-02-27

    Recent trends on microbiology point out the urge to develop optical micro-tools with multifunctionalities such as simultaneous manipulation and sensing. Considering that miniaturization has been recognized as one of the most important paradigms of emerging sensing biotechnologies, optical fiber tools, including Optical Fiber Tweezers (OFTs), are suitable candidates for developing multifunctional small sensors for Medicine and Biology. OFTs are flexible and versatile optotools based on fibers with one extremity patterned to form a micro-lens. These are able to focus laser beams and exert forces onto microparticles strong enough (piconewtons) to trap and manipulate them. In this paper, through an exploratory analysis of a 45 features set, including time and frequency-domain parameters of the back-scattered signal of particles trapped by a polymeric lens, we created a novel single feature able to differentiate synthetic particles (PMMA and Polystyrene) from living yeasts cells. This single statistical feature can be useful for the development of label-free hybrid optical fiber sensors with applications in infectious diseases detection or cells sorting. It can also contribute, by revealing the most significant information that can be extracted from the scattered signal, to the development of a simpler method for particles characterization (in terms of composition, heterogeneity degree) than existent technologies.

  12. Scattering of a Tightly Focused Beam by an Optically Trapped Particle

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Lock, James A.; Wrbanek, Susan Y.; Weiland, Kenneth E.

    2006-01-01

    Near-forward scattering of an optically trapped 5 m radius polystyrene latex sphere by the trapping beam was examined both theoretically and experimentally. Since the trapping beam is tightly focused, the beam fields superpose and interfere with the scattered fields in the forward hemisphere. The observed light intensity consists of a series of concentric bright and dark fringes centered about the forward scattering direction. Both the number of fringes and their contrast depend on the position of the trapping beam focal waist with respect to the sphere. The fringes are caused by diffraction due to the truncation of the tail of the trapping beam as the beam is transmitted through the sphere.

  13. Use of EPR Spin-Trapping Techniques to Detect Radicals from Rat Lung Lavage Fluid Following Sulfur Mustard Vapor Exposure

    DTIC Science & Technology

    1993-05-13

    lung injury. Anesthetized rats were intratracheally intubated and exposed to 0.35 mg HD vapor over 50 min, Immediately, 1 hr or 24 hr after exposure...lungs were lavaged with the spin trap, alpha-phenyl-t-butyl nitrone (PBN; 0.35 mg/ml). Recovered lavage fluid was assayed by EPR spectroscopy for...in EtOH (100 Ml), or EtOH alone (control), was placed in a water Jacketed (37° C) vapor generator and the rats .ere exposed for 50 min. by which time

  14. Magneto-Optics of Massive Dirac Fermions in Bulk Bi2Se3

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Orlita, M.; Piot, B. A.; Martinez, G.; Kumar, N. K. Sampath; Faugeras, C.; Potemski, M.; Michel, C.; Hankiewicz, E. M.; Brauner, T.; Drašar, Č.; Schreyeck, S.; Grauer, S.; Brunner, K.; Gould, C.; Brüne, C.; Molenkamp, L. W.

    2015-05-01

    We report on magneto-optical studies of Bi2Se3, a representative member of the 3D topological insulator family. Its electronic states in bulk are shown to be well described by a simple Dirac-type Hamiltonian for massive particles with only two parameters: the fundamental band gap and the band velocity. In a magnetic field, this model implies a unique property—spin splitting equal to twice the cyclotron energy: Es=2 Ec. This explains the extensive magnetotransport studies concluding a fortuitous degeneracy of the spin and orbital split Landau levels in this material. The Es=2 Ec match differentiates the massive Dirac electrons in bulk Bi2Se3 from those in quantum electrodynamics, for which Es=Ec always holds.

  15. Measurement of vacuum pressure with a magneto-optical trap: A pressure-rise method

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Moore, Rowan W. G.; Lee, Lucie A.; Findlay, Elizabeth A.

    2015-09-15

    The lifetime of an atom trap is often limited by the presence of residual background gases in the vacuum chamber. This leads to the lifetime being inversely proportional to the pressure. Here, we use this dependence to estimate the pressure and to obtain pressure rate-of-rise curves, which are commonly used in vacuum science to evaluate the performance of a system. We observe different rates of pressure increase in response to different levels of outgassing in our system. Therefore, we suggest that this is a sensitive method which will find useful applications in cold atom systems, in particular, where the inclusionmore » of a standard vacuum gauge is impractical.« less

  16. Suppression of vapor cell temperature error for spin-exchange-relaxation-free magnetometer

    DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

    Lu, Jixi, E-mail: lujixi@buaa.edu.cn; Qian, Zheng; Fang, Jiancheng

    2015-08-15

    This paper presents a method to reduce the vapor cell temperature error of the spin-exchange-relaxation-free (SERF) magnetometer. The fluctuation of cell temperature can induce variations of the optical rotation angle, resulting in a scale factor error of the SERF magnetometer. In order to suppress this error, we employ the variation of the probe beam absorption to offset the variation of the optical rotation angle. The theoretical discussion of our method indicates that the scale factor error introduced by the fluctuation of the cell temperature could be suppressed by setting the optical depth close to one. In our experiment, we adjustmore » the probe frequency to obtain various optical depths and then measure the variation of scale factor with respect to the corresponding cell temperature changes. Our experimental results show a good agreement with our theoretical analysis. Under our experimental condition, the error has been reduced significantly compared with those when the probe wavelength is adjusted to maximize the probe signal. The cost of this method is the reduction of the scale factor of the magnetometer. However, according to our analysis, it only has minor effect on the sensitivity under proper operating parameters.« less

  17. Observation of nonlinear optical interactions of ultralow levels of light in a tapered optical nanofiber embedded in a hot rubidium vapor.

    PubMed

    Spillane, S M; Pati, G S; Salit, K; Hall, M; Kumar, P; Beausoleil, R G; Shahriar, M S

    2008-06-13

    We report the observation of low-light level optical interactions in a tapered optical nanofiber (TNF) embedded in a hot rubidium vapor. The small optical mode area plays a significant role in the optical properties of the hot vapor Rb-TNF system, allowing nonlinear optical interactions with nW level powers even in the presence of transit-time dephasing rates much larger than the intrinsic linewidth. We demonstrate nonlinear absorption and V-type electromagnetically induced transparency with cw powers below 10 nW, comparable to the best results in any Rb-optical waveguide system. The good performance and flexibility of the Rb-TNF system makes it a very promising candidate for ultralow power resonant nonlinear optical applications.

  18. Diffraction analysis and evaluation of several focus- and track-error detection schemes for magneto-optical disk systems

    NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

    Bernacki, Bruce E.; Mansuripur, M.

    1992-01-01

    A commonly used tracking method on pre-grooved magneto-optical (MO) media is the push-pull technique, and the astigmatic method is a popular focus-error detection approach. These two methods are analyzed using DIFFRACT, a general-purpose scalar diffraction modeling program, to observe the effects on the error signals due to focusing lens misalignment, Seidel aberrations, and optical crosstalk (feedthrough) between the focusing and tracking servos. Using the results of the astigmatic/push-pull system as a basis for comparison, a novel focus/track-error detection technique that utilizes a ring toric lens is evaluated as well as the obscuration method (focus error detection only).

  19. Investigation on cytoskeleton dynamics for no-adherent cells subjected to point-like stimuli by digital holographic microscopy and holographic optical trapping

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Miccio, Lisa; Merola, Francesco; Memmolo, Pasquale; Mugnano, Martina; Fusco, Sabato; Netti, Paolo A.; Ferraro, Pietro

    2014-05-01

    Guiding, controlling and studying cellular functions are challenging themes in the biomedical field, as they are fundamental prerequisites for new therapeutic strategies from tissue regeneration to controlled drug delivery. In recent years, multidisciplinary studies in nanotechnology offer new tools to investigate important biophysical phenomena in response to the local physical characteristics of the extracellular environment, some examples are the mechanisms of cell adhesion, migration, communication and differentiation. Indeed for reproducing the features of the extracellular matrix in vitro, it is essential to develop active devices that evoke as much as possible the natural cellular environment. Our investigation is in the framework of studying and clarifying the biophysical mechanisms of the interaction between cells and the microenvironment in which they exist. We implement an optical tweezers setup to investigate cell material interaction and we use Digital Holography as non-invasive imaging technique in microscopy. We exploit Holographic Optical Tweezers arrangement in order to trap and manage functionalized micrometric latex beads to induce mechanical deformation in suspended cells. A lot of papers in literature examine the dynamics of the cytoskeleton when cells adhere on substrates and nowadays well established cell models are based on such research activities. Actually, the natural cell environment is made of a complex extracellular matrix and the single cell behavior is due to intricate interactions with the environment and are strongly correlated to the cell-cell interactions. Our investigation is devoted to understand the inner cell mechanism when it is mechanically stressed by point-like stimulus without the substrate influence.

  20. Evaluation method for acoustic trapping performance by tracking motion of trapped microparticle

    NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

    Lim, Hae Gyun; Ham Kim, Hyung; Yoon, Changhan

    2018-05-01

    We report a method to evaluate the performances of a single-beam acoustic tweezer using a high-frequency ultrasound transducer. The motion of a microparticle trapped by a 45-MHz single-element transducer was captured and analyzed to deduce the magnitude of trapping force. In the proposed method, the motion of a trapped microparticle was analyzed from a series of microscopy images to compute trapping force; thus, no additional equipment such as microfluidics is required. The method could be used to estimate the effective trapping force in an acoustic tweezer experiment to assess cell membrane deformability by attaching a microbead to the surface of a cell and tracking the motion of the trapped bead, which is similar to a bead-based assay that uses optical tweezers. The results showed that the trapping force increased with increasing acoustic intensity and duty factor, but the force eventually reached a plateau at a higher acoustic intensity. They demonstrated that this method could be used as a simple tool to evaluate the performance and to optimize the operating conditions of acoustic tweezers.