Giant nonlinear optical responses from photon avalanching nanoparticles
This technology describes the use of photon avalanching (PA) in single nanostructures for super-resolution microscopy.
Unmet Need: A new class of highly nonlinear, biologically friendly materials for bio-imaging
Current methods to obtain super-resolution images involve complex, purpose-built optical systems, collection of multiple images and postprocessing, and/or fluorescent probes that exhibit photobleaching. Photon avalanching (PA) uses nonlinear dynamics to generate large responses from small perturbations of a material, but this mechanism has only been observed in bulk materials and aggregates, limiting its utility and impact in optical systems and super-resolution imaging.
The Technology: Photon avalanching nanoparticles for super-resolution imaging and sensing
This technology uses Tm3+-doped upconverting nanoparticles that demonstrate photon avalanching (PA) to enable super-resolution (<70 nm resolution) imaging at wavelengths that fall within near-infrared (NIR) spectral windows. This technology enables imaging with even higher resolutions and 100-fold lower excitation intensities than is possible with other super-resolution imaging methods. PA in single nanostructures can be used for super-resolution microscopy, IR detection, sub-wavelength imaging, and optical and environmental sensing.
The use of these photo avalanching nanocrystals has been demonstrated in super-resolution imaging in near-infrared spectral windows of maximal biological transparency.
Applications:
- Super-resolution imaging
- Chemical sensing
- Environmental sensing
- Optical sensing
- Optical phase-conjugate imaging
- Sub-wavelength imaging
- Infrared quantum counting
- Upconverted lasing
Advantages:
- Cost-effective
- Compatible with confocal microscope platforms
- Utility in a diverse array of applications
Lead Inventor:
Patent Information:
Related Publications:
Tech Ventures Reference:
IR CU21104
Licensing Contact: Greg Maskel