title: Three-dimensional arrays of submicron particles generated by a four-beam optical lattice.
abstract: Using an optical lattice formed by four laser beams, we obtain three-dimensional light-induced crystals of 490-nm-diameter polystyrene spheres in solution. The setup yields face-centered orthorhombic optical crystals of a packing density of about 40%. An alignment procedure is developed in which the crystals are first prepared near a sample wall, and then in the bulk of the sample. A series of tests is performed that demonstrate particle trapping in all three dimensions. For one case, the trapping force is measured, and good agreement with a simple theoretical model is found. Possible applications are discussed.
authors: FOCUS Center, Department of Physics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109, USA.
authors: B N
authors: BN
authors: Slama-Eliau
authors: G
authors: G
authors: Raithel