SNOM probes: fabrication and application for local modification of surface

The probe is a key element of a SNOM. The probe size determines the microscope resolution, the optical power emerging from the probe determines applications of SNOM for local surface modification and high-resolution diagnostics. Two methods of fabrication of SNOM probes are developed in this report - the method of chemical etching of optical fiber and method of controlled mechanical pulling with laser heating of optical fiber ("laser pooling")