Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Nano-tweezers, especially those based on photonic crystals and plasmonic structures, are powerful tools for trapping, manipulating, or accelerating nano-sized objects. However, the precise control of the inter-distance between trapped nanoparticles has rarely been considered. In this paper, we propose a mirror-symmetric optical conveyor belt, in which each unit contains three graded nano-slots. Through the optimized design of spacing between these nano-slots, the structure generates multiple trapping centers, enabling wavelength-selective control over trapping positions. The results show that, through dynamically shifting excitation wavelengths, the programmable bidirectional optical manipulation of nanoparticles can be achieved. Also, the inter-distance between trapped particles can be tuned with subwavelength precision. The proposed structure provides a versatile solution for lab-on-a-chip systems, especially for systems aiming to study the interactions between objects.
Source: Photonics
Authors: Lin Wang, Bojian Shi, Yuhan Shan
Institutions: Nanjing Tech University, Harbin Institute of Technology
Language: English
Subfield: Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics
Field: Physics and Astronomy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,896
OpenAlex ID: W7154145454