Photovoltaic tweezers an emergent tool for applications in nano and bio-technology

Abstract

An overview of the work recently conducted by our group on the development and applications of photovoltaic tweezers is presented. It includes the analysis of the physical basis of the method and the main achievements in its experimental implementation. Particular attention will be paid to the main potential applications and first demonstrations of its use in nano- and bio-technology. Specifically: i) fabrication of metallic nanoestructures for plasmonic applications, ii) development of diffractive components, iii) manipulation and patterning (1D and 2D) of various types of bio-objects (spores or pollen…) and iv) effects of PV fields of LiNbO3 in tumour cells