title: Three-dimensional imaging with optical tweezers.
abstract: We demonstrate a three-dimensional scanning probe microscope in which the extremely soft spring of an optical tweezers trap is used. Feedback control of the instrument based on backscattered light levels allows three-dimensional imaging of microscopic samples in an aqueous environment. Preliminary results with a 2-microm-diameter spherical probe indicate that features of approximately 200 nm can be resolved, with a sensitivity of 5 nm in the height measurement. The theoretical resolution is limited by the probe dimensions.
authors.affiliation: Centre for Laser Science, Department of Physics, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld 4072, Australia. friese@physics.uq.edu.au
authors.forename: M E
authors.initials: ME
authors.lastname: Friese
authors.forename: A G
authors.initials: AG
authors.lastname: Truscott
authors.forename: H
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Rubinsztein-Dunlop
authors.forename: N R
authors.initials: NR
authors.lastname: Heckenberg