English

Observation of nanoscale behavior of light driven polymers using combination microscopy technology

1047
2024-03-12 14:02:46
See translation

Expanding our scientific understanding often boils down to observing what is happening as closely as possible. Now, researchers from Japan have observed the nanoscale behavior of azo polymer films and triggered them with lasers.

In a study published in Nano Express last month, researchers at Osaka University used a combination of cutting-edge scanning high-speed atomic force microscopy and optical microscopy to create films as polymer films changed.

Azo polymers are photoactive materials, which means they undergo changes when light shines on them. Specifically, light can alter their chemical structure, thereby altering the surface of thin films. This makes them very interested in applications such as optical data storage and providing light triggered motion.

The ability to use focused laser to initiate these changes during image capture is called in situ measurement.
"Usually, changes in polymer films are studied by processing them, such as by irradiating them with light and then measuring or observing them. However, the information provided is limited," explained Keishi Yang, the main author of the study. "The use of HS-AFM devices, including inverted optical microscopes with lasers, allows us to trigger changes in azo polymer films while observing them in real-time with high spatiotemporal resolution."

HS-AFM measurement can track the dynamic changes on the surface of polymer films in movies at a speed of two frames per second. It was also found that the direction of polarized light used has an impact on the final surface pattern.

Further research using in-situ methods is expected to thoroughly understand the mechanism of photo driven azo polymer deformation, thereby maximizing the potential of these materials.

"We have demonstrated our technique for observing polymer membrane deformation," said Takayuki Umakoshi, senior author of the study. However, in doing so, we have demonstrated the potential to combine cutting-edge scanning HS-AFM with laser sources for materials science and physical chemistry.

Materials and processes that respond to light are important in a wide range of fields in chemistry and biology, including sensing, imaging, and nanomedicine. In situ technology provides an opportunity to deepen understanding and maximize potential, and therefore has the potential to be applied to various optical devices.

Source: Laser Net

Related Recommendations
  • Luxiner launches LXR platform to set new standards for industrial laser microfabrication

    Luxiner, a globally renowned laser technology leader, proudly launches its latest innovative product, the groundbreaking LXR ultra short pulse laser platform. This cutting-edge technology represents a significant leap in industrial laser processing, providing unparalleled performance, versatility, and reliability.In today's rapidly changing industrial environment, laser technology plays a crucial ...

    2024-03-25
    See translation
  • The Institute of Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences has made significant progress in the research of lithium niobate nanooptics

    In recent years, breakthroughs in the preparation technology of lithium niobate single crystal thin films have greatly promoted the important application of lithium niobate crystals in micro nano optical devices such as optical metasurfaces. However, the high hardness and inactive chemical properties of lithium niobate crystals pose significant challenges to micro nano processing; In addition, con...

    04-15
    See translation
  • Laser giant announces launch of new fiber laser platform

    Recently, Coherent Corp. announced the launch of the EDGE FL TM high-power fiber laser series, tailored specifically for cutting applications in the machine tool industry. The power levels of the EDGE FL series range from 1.5kW to 20kW, redefining the balance between value and performance to meet the growing demand for high-power, reliable laser sources in fiber laser cutting.With the increasing d...

    2024-10-23
    See translation
  • Edmund Optics acquisition son-x

    Recently, globally renowned optical component manufacturer Edmund Optics announced that the company has acquired ultrasonic assisted systems and high-precision optical manufacturer son-x.Edmund Optics, as a leader in optical technology solutions, has been serving various fields such as life sciences, biomedicine, industrial testing, semiconductors, and laser processing since its establishment in 1...

    01-22
    See translation
  • Researchers use a new frequency comb to capture photon high-speed processes

    From detecting COVID in respiration to monitoring greenhouse gas concentrations, laser technology called frequency combs can recognize specific molecules as simple as carbon dioxide to as complex as monoclonal antibodies, with unparalleled accuracy and sensitivity. Although frequency combs have incredible capabilities, their ability to capture high-speed processes such as hypersonic propulsion or ...

    2023-11-02
    See translation