By: Takashi Kumagai - Institute for Molecular Science, Okazaki, Japan
When: September, 26 - 11.30 AM
Where: Salón de Actos, ICMM
Abstract: The rapid advancement of nanotechnology requires sophisticated measurement techniques capable of capturing phenomena at the nano scale. Infrared spectroscopy serves as a versatile tool for studying the microscopic structures, properties, and dynamics of a wide variety of materials. However, its spatial resolution is inherently limited by the diffraction limit, which restricts the ability to directly characterize nanoscale objects. Nano-spectroscopy using near-field optics offers a unique approach to overcome this physical limitation, enabling the investigation of materials at the nanoscale.
We have focused on the development and application of infrared nano-spectroscopy based on scattering-type scanning near-field optical microscopy combined with a wavelength-tunable pulsed laser that spans from the visible to the mid-infrared region. This system allows us to perform nanoscale infrared spectroscopy with exceptional sensitivity and resolution. By covering a broad wavelength range, our SNOM setup can probe a wide variety of vibrational modes, enabling detailed chemical and structural analysis at the nanoscale. I will discuss our recent application of this infrared nano-spectroscopy to investigate nanomaterials, including biological molecules, strongly-correlated nanoparticles, and low-dimensional materials.
