Plasmonic optical trapping of soft nanomatters

Abstract

A localized surface plasmon exerts a strong optical force on polarized nanoparticles, leading to efficient optical trapping of them on plasmonic nanostructures. Such plasmonic optical trapping has attracted much attention in recent years because it possesses several advantages over conventional optical manipulation methods. Using this method, we demonstrated the micro-pattern formations in soft matter such as DNA and a thermoresponsive polymer. We discuss the formation mechanisms, taking into account not only the enhanced radiation force but also the photothermal effects induced by plasmon excitation. By controlling these physical phenomena, this method will open a new way to micropatterning and manipulation of soft matter such as polymers, supramolecules, and biomaterials on plasmonic nanostructures.