Hybrid Optical and Diffusiophoretic Nanomanipulation Using All-Dielectric Anapole-Enhanced Thermonanophotonics

We present a noninvasive platform that combines the near-field optical gradient force from a nonradiating anapole nanoantenna with a diffusiophoretic force to achieve nanoscale particle transportation, trapping, and manipulation. Our approach utilizes a-Si-based nanocylinder supporting optical anapoles and serves as a nanoscale heat source at visible wavelengths, resulting in the generation of a diffusiophoretic force that enables the precise manipulation of nanoscale particles. These manipulations are performed in a water medium containing 10% poly(ethylene glycol) polymer molecules. Through experimental demonstrations, we successfully transport and manipulate a 300 nm PS bead on anapole arrays spaced at 2, 3, and 5 mu m, using a low laser intensity of 0.2 mW/um(2). The synergistic integration of the optical gradient force and the photothermally induced diffusiophoretic force holds immense potential for advancements in nanoscience and life science by providing the means to exert control over nanosized objects.