Positioning and Immobilization of Individual Quantum Dots with Nanoscale Precision

Abstract

We demonstrate a technique for the precise immobilization of nanoscale objects at accurate positions on two-dimensional surfaces. We have developed a water-based photoresist that causes nanostructures such as colloidal quantum dots to segregate to a thin layer at surfaces. By combining this material with electroosmotic feedback control, we demonstrate the ability to position selected, individual quantum dots at specific locations and to immobilize them with 130 nm precision via localized UV exposure.

New applications and emerging technologies in nanolithography

“…After each QD is delivered to the surface of the photonic chip it is fi xed in place using a low-viscosity, water-based, negative-tone photoresist. 28,29 A brief ultraviolet laser pulse polymerizes a small cap of fl uid immediately around the positioned QD, permanently fi xing it on the chip surface.…”

Nanoscale probing of surface plasmons with single quantum dots

“…The ability to position nanoscopic objects at precise locations on a surface is essential for a broad range of applications in the areas of quantum optics, sub-wavelength imaging, and biological sensing. In this talk I will describe a method we have developed for manipulating particles with nanometer accuracy by controlling the flow of the surrounding liquid [1][2][3]. This technique can manipulate a single pre-selected quantum dot to better than 45 nm accuracy and use it as a near field optical sensor that can probe nanoscale photonic structures.…”

Confinement of single macromolecules in free solution using a hydrodynamic trap

“…However, confinement and fine-scale manipulation of macromolecules and nanoparticles remains a significant challenge. Currently, particle trapping methods based on acoustic [1][2][3][4] , electrokinetic [5][6][7][8][9][10][11][12][13][14][15] , magnetic [16][17][18] , and optical [19][20][21][22][23][24][25][26][27][28] fields are utilized, but these methods are limited to trapping particles with specific material properties and bulky micron-scale dimensions. [29][30][31] Recently, we developed a new flow-based confinement method that enables 2-D manipulation of single micro and nanoscale particles suspended in aqueous solution.…”