Optical Near-field Induced Chemical Partial Hydrophobic/ Hydrophilic Modification with Sub-diffraction Limit Resolution

This study reports a novel partial hydrophobic/hydrophilic modification using the optical near-field (ONF) induced photocatalytic reaction. Herein the achievement of sub-diffraction limit resolution by photo-induced method opens a new platform towards extended-nano (100nm~1000nm) fluidic devices, in which the partial surface modification is indispensible to exploit functional applications, yet difficult to realize due to the diffraction limit nature of light. It is also worthy to note that the simple experimental setup and feasible protocol in our method promise critical impacts on surface modification and the development of extended-nano devices.