Slow bloch mode cavity for optical trapping

Abstract

In this paper, we will present a new kind of structure that has the ability to trap nanometric particles and presents big capture cross section. This approach relies on the use of slow Bloch mode in a photonic crystal cavity. We will show how a new kind of design allows for an easy coupling of this kind of structure. FDTD modeling of the optical forces will be presented. We will show that the light intensity modulation related to the periodicity of the photonic crystal gives rise to strong gradient forces that are able to trap small nanoparticles in a large cavity. Experimental results validating this approach will be presented.