Dielectrophoretically tunable optofluidic devices

    Authors

    S. Xu; H. W. Ren;S. T. Wu

    Comments

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    Abbreviated Journal Title

    J. Phys. D-Appl. Phys.

    Keywords

    DISPERSED LIQUID-CRYSTALS; OPTICAL SWITCH; DIELECTRIC FORCES; MICROLENS; ARRAY; POLARIZER-FREE; LENS ARRAY; BROAD-BAND; DISPLAYS; DROPLET; POLYMER; Physics, Applied

    Abstract

    Tunable optofluidic devices exhibit some unique characteristics that are not achievable in conventional solid-state photonic devices. They provide exciting opportunities for emerging applications in imaging, information processing, sensing, optical communication, lab-on-a-chip and biomedical engineering. A dielectrophoresis effect is an important physical mechanism to realize tunable optofluidic devices. Via balancing the voltage-induced dielectric force and interfacial tension, the liquid interface can be dynamically manipulated and the optical output reconfigured or adaptively tuned in real time. Dielectrophoretically tunable optofluidic devices offer several attractive features, such as rapid prototyping, miniaturization, easy integration and low power consumption. In this review paper, we first explain the underlying operation principles and then review some recent progress in this field, covering the topics of adaptive lens, beam steering, iris, grating, optical switch/attenuator and single pixel display. Finally, the future perspectives are discussed.

    Journal Title

    Journal of Physics D-Applied Physics

    Volume

    46

    Issue/Number

    48

    Publication Date

    1-1-2013

    Document Type

    Review

    Language

    English

    First Page

    14

    WOS Identifier

    WOS:000327539500002

    ISSN

    0022-3727

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