Y. Wang, G. Zhuang, C. Liu, Y. Kang
Yancheng Teachers University,
China
Keywords: femto-second laser micro-machining, multilayer planar films, DNA sequencing, transfer matrix method
Summary:
We use two different materials before the output window of a laser: one is a “dark” planar metal-dielectric film that absorbs light thoroughly into surface Plasmon polaritions (SPPs), and another is a “transparent” dielectric material that reduces SPPs to free space optical waves. Therefore this technology builds a laser beam without diffraction spreading, and it is transformational to generate a strong beam spot of a few nanometers. Current the most promising DNA sequencing device, the solid-state nanopores with nano-meter-thin constrictions, is produced by an energy-dissipative “cold ion beam sculpting” procedure. It is ideal to fabricate such nanopores with a femto-second laser directly. However, existing ultrafast laser micromachining is based on the extraordinary peak power of a tightly focused pulsed laser, whose size is fundamentally limited by optical diffraction, to induce desired patterns. Therefore existing laser technology cannot reach an intense beam spot of a few nanometers. Our nano-pore DNA sequencing device will offer fast and cost-effective solution for DNA sequencing, and will make routinely prescription of DNA sequencing possible for the detection of early stage cancer. Our novel technology will also generate a variety of photonic devices and other medical applications from eye surgery to dentistry.