Final Report Summary - LINASS (Light-induced NanoAssembly)
We have also been able to combine molecular systems with these metal nanostructures, to create active devices that respond to light. For instance, we have found a low-cost and surprisingly simple way to make nanoparticles that push each other when even weak light falls on them, and the extremely fast speed generating strong forces that offer a new way forward in making nano-machinery. Other types of optical control have also been possible, for instance using the trapped light to control local chemical reactions, or to join molecules together to make tiny permanent polymer structures.
Perhaps most importantly, we have found ways to really see things on the nanoscale directly and controllably for the first time, studying many basic processes such as how do salt ions organise themselves at nano-interfaces, how do individual molecules move around and flex, how can light induce forces on the sub-nanometer scale, and how can light undo chemical bonds. These open up wide areas for new exploration as we start to really build in earnest on the nanoscale.