Enhanced trapping and rotation of sub-micron particles and cells through nanostructures

In this work we propose and demonstrate the use of 1D photonic crystals to achieve both enhanced trapping forces and unique functionality, namely the ability to rotate and align particles using purely optical means. Particles as small as 190 nm can be trapped effectively, and bacteria cells can be rotated with an intensity as low as 17 muW/mum
²
.