Nanorotors using asymmetric inorganic nanorods in an optical trap

Khan, Manas and Sood, AK and Deepak, FL and Rao, CNR (2006) Nanorotors using asymmetric inorganic nanorods in an optical trap. In: Nanotechnology, 17 (11). S287-S290.

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Abstract

We demonstrate how light force, irrespective of the polarization of the light, can be used to run a simple nanorotor. While the gradient force of a single beam optical trap is used to hold an asymmetric nanorod, we utilize the scattering force to generate a torque on the nanorod, making it rotate about the optic axis. The inherent textural irregularities or morphological asymmetries of the nanorods give rise to the torque under the radiation pressure. Even a small surface irregularity with non-zero chirality is sufficient to produce enough torque for moderate rotational speed. Different sized rotors can be used to set the speed of rotation over a wide range with fine tuning possible through the variation of the laser power. We present a simple dimensional analysis to qualitatively explain the observed trend of the rotational motion of the nanorods.

Item Type:	Journal Article
Publication:	Nanotechnology
Publisher:	IOP Publishing Limited
Additional Information:	Copyright of this article belong to IOP Publishing Limited.
Department/Centre:	Division of Physical & Mathematical Sciences > Physics
Date Deposited:	01 Apr 2009 11:33
Last Modified:	19 Sep 2010 04:59
URI:	http://eprints.iisc.ac.in/id/eprint/18000

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