Abstract:
A technique to guide a micro- or nano-scale particle uses the wavelengths of light beams to control the direction of motion of the particle. In this technique, an optical asymmetry is introduced into the particle to form a composite particle. The composite particle includes two faces that preferentially absorb light of different wavelengths, independent of the particle orientation. The difference in absorption spectra of the two faces creates a bidirectional and local thermal gradient that is externally switchable by changing the wavelength of the incident light beams. This thermal gradient induces a thermophoretic drift that moves the composite particle. A two-faced nanoparticle can be guided using the optically induced thermophoretic drift as the propulsion mechanism.
Abstract:
An apparatus includes at least one conductive layer, an electromagnetic (EM) wave source, and an electron source. The conductive layer has a thickness less than 5 nm. The electromagnetic (EM) wave source is in electromagnetic communication with the at least one conductive layer and transmits a first EM wave at a first wavelength in the at least one conductive layer so as to generate a surface plasmon polariton (SPP) field near a surface of the at least one conductive layer. The electron source propagates an electron beam at least partially in the SPP field so as to generate a second EM wave at a second wavelength less than the first wavelength.
Abstract:
Incandescent lighting structure. The structure includes a thermal emitter that can, but does not have to, include a first photonic crystal on its surface to tailor thermal emission coupled to, in a high-view-factor geometry, a second photonic filter selected to reflect infrared radiation back to the emitter while passing visible light. This structure is highly efficient as compared to standard incandescent light bulbs.