Realizing optical manipulation of micro-objects in nonliquid environments is challenging due to strong friction force (~µN) that makes optical force (~pN) insignificant. Towards this goal, scientists from Westlake University in China demonstrated spiral motions of microscopic objects on dry surfaces as driven by nanosecond laser pulses. They revealed the underlying mechanism relating to interactions between thermoelastic waves and friction force. The results pave the way for future development of microscopic actuators in non-liquid environments.
Click here for original story, Micro-scale opto-thermo-mechanical actuation in the dry adhesive regime
Source: Phys.org