title: Particle size limits when using optical trapping and deflection of particles for sorting using diode laser bars.
abstract: We explore a simple, inexpensive approach to large particle manipulation using diode laser bar optical trapping. This method overcomes limitations that prevent conventional point laser traps from effectively directing large particles. Expanding a previously developed line optical trap model into larger particle regimes, we verify and examine the advantages and limitations of diode laser bar trapping for manipulating particles greater than 100 microm in diameter within fluidic environments for biochemical, biological, and biomedical applications.
authors.affiliation: Center for Biomedical Engineering, The University of New Mexico, 222 University Blvd NE Centennial Engineering Center Room 2041, Albuquerque, NM 87131, USA. rappleg8@unm.edu
authors.forename: Robert W
authors.initials: RW
authors.lastname: Applegate
authors.forename: David W M
authors.initials: DW
authors.lastname: Marr
authors.forename: Jeff
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Squier
authors.forename: Steven W
authors.initials: SW
authors.lastname: Graves