Optical manipulation of airborne particles: techniques and applications

In the following paper, we discuss new methods to trap and manipulate airborne liquid aerosol droplets. We discuss the single gradient force trapping of water aerosols in the 2 - 14 micron diameter range using both 532 nm and 1064 nm light, as well as the holographic optical trapping of arrays of aerosols. Using this holographic technique, we are able to show controlled aerosol coagulation. We also discuss two techniques based on the radiation pressure trapping of aerosols, namely the dual beam fibre trap and the controlled guiding of aerosols using Bessel beams. We conclude with a discussion of new topics for study based upon these techniques and some possible applications.