Dielectric materials are non-conducting materials that do not allow the flow of electric current. They are characterized by a high dielectric constant, which means they can store large amounts of electrical energy.
An optical trap, also known as an optical tweezer, is a scientific instrument that uses a laser beam to trap and manipulate small particles such as cells or molecules. It works by using the radiation pressure of the laser to create a gradient force that pulls the particles towards the center of the beam.
Dielectric materials are often used as the particle or sample being trapped in an optical trap. They are also used as the medium surrounding the particles, as they can create a stable and well-defined electric field that helps to trap and manipulate the particles.
Dielectric materials offer several advantages in optical traps, such as low absorption and scattering of light, high refractive index, and strong dielectric forces. Additionally, they are biocompatible and can be easily functionalized with biomolecules for specific applications.
Some common dielectric materials used in optical traps include polystyrene, silica, and silicon dioxide microspheres, as well as biological materials such as cells, bacteria, and viruses. Other examples include polymer beads, liposomes, and quantum dots.