Micro-optomechanical assembly of modified zeolite L crystals

Zeolite L is a type of porous micro-sized crystal which features a high number of strictly one-dimensional aligned nano-channels across the whole crystal axis. Such porous microsized crystals are particularly interesting as building blocks not only because their nanopores can be loaded with small molecules, bridging the gap between the micro- and nanoworlds, but also because the outer surface can be chemically modified to allow the construction of sophisticated crystal assemblies.

In this Master thesis, zeolite L crystals with different chemical surface modifications will be tested and optically assembled in order to form heterogeneous assemblies, leading to photonic micro systems with fundamental functions, including generation and guiding of light. For this purpose, a holographic optical tweezers system will be used in combination with microfluidic systems to assemble the modified zeolite L crystals. In addition, assemblies of zeolites will be investigated on modified glass surfaces such as e.g. ITO-coated or polymer films on cover slides.

This Master thesis is organized thematically into the ongoing research of the "optical tweezers" team of the group of Nonlinear Photonics. In our team, Bachelor, Master and PhD students discuss frequently about results, problems, scientific related articles and new ideas.

We are looking for committed students who are interested in functional applications of Photonics and want to work on current research. German, English and Spanish working environment is possible.

Contact person: if you are interested you can contact Álvaro Barroso who will be happy to show you our labs and present the offered thesis in the areas of optical micromanipulation and tailored light fields.