Novel Micro-optical structures on optical fiber tip with two-photon lithography
ApplyProject Description
Optical fibers are nowadays an ubiquitous core element of telecommunication systems, new laser technologies and biomedical devices. Manufacturing techniques for optical fibers have been developed and refined in order create manifold geometries and optical properties (e.g.Dual clad fibers, fiber bundles, Photonic Crystal Fibers, to name a few). Yet the capability to fabricate complex miniaturized structures integrated with optical fibers to realize important optical functions (like beam shaping, beam deflection, fiber optical tweezers, etc.) has been demonstrated only very recently.The project will focus on the fabrication of optical wave-guiding structures on the tip of optical fibers exploiting to flexibility, resolution and 3D fabrication capability of Laser Direct Writing based on Two-Photon Lithography (TPL).



About the
Researcher
Carlo Liberale
Research Associate Professor, Bioscience

Prof. Liberale's research interests are focused on developing and applying label-free chemical imaging techniques based on vibrational spectroscopy (Infrared and Raman micro-spectroscopy) and multi-photon processes (Coherent Raman Microscopy, SHG). One of the main aims of this research activity is to unveil specific bio-chemical signatures of cancer stem cells, with a particular focus on understanding the dysregulation of their lipid metabolism.
He is also interested on using high-resolution 3D printing based on Direct Laser Writing for the fabrication of novel micro-optics, towards the miniaturization of complex optical systems, and of smart micro-/nano-structures to be used as a probe in nanoscale imaging. This research activity takes advantage from an integrated approach that combines design, micro/nanofabrication and optical techniques.
He is also interested on using high-resolution 3D printing based on Direct Laser Writing for the fabrication of novel micro-optics, towards the miniaturization of complex optical systems, and of smart micro-/nano-structures to be used as a probe in nanoscale imaging. This research activity takes advantage from an integrated approach that combines design, micro/nanofabrication and optical techniques.
Desired Project Deliverables
Learn Two-Photon Lithography. Design structures using wave-optics propagation software. Fabricate structures on optical fibers. Measurements to assess optical function of fabricated structures.