Polarization gradient: exploring an original route for optical trapping and manipulation

Abstract

We report a study of the capabilities of an optical tweezer based on polarization gradient. We use a light polarization pattern that is able to simultaneously exert forces and torques in opposite directions depending on the particle's position. It allows to perform oscillatory displacements and control the sense of rotation of several particles inside a uniformly illuminated region. Unconventional trapping of spinning particles in circularly polarized fringes has been observed, which suggests the involvement of hydrodynamic forces.