Probing Nanoscale Chirality Using Decoupled Optical Force Nanoscopy

Scanning probe technologies offer unparalleled insights into nanoscale light-matter interactions but are often hindered by the complex interplay of concurrent light-induced effects. To address this challenge, we have recently developed a technique called decoupled optical force nanoscopy (Dofn). Dofn uniquely isolates light-induced forces—such as optical gradient, photoacoustic, and photothermal effects—by employing a specialized modulation and demodulation of the phases of the measured optical forces. In this talk, I will discuss how Dofn enables the precise probing of nanoscale chirality emerging from nanostructures, opening new avenues for understanding and manipulating chiral light-matter interactions at the nanoscale.