DIRECTED MATERIAL FORMATION WITH OPTICAL AND ACOUSTIC FORCES

We present a novel concept based on the idea that optical traps and standing acoustic waves can be used not only to manipulate and order preformed materials (as previously demonstrated), but also to influence ongoing chemical reactions. We experimentally study how acoustic and optical forces promote formation of polymeric micro-structures when applied on a solution undergoing emulsion polymerization. Furthermore, by adding inorganic nanoparticles, hybrid formations are produced.

The main advantage of these methods lies in their modularity and flexibility, as acoustic and optical forces will influence most of the dispersed systems. Polymeric / hybrid patterned surfaces and colloids could be useful for the formation of sensors and filters as well as for biomedical applications.