A
nanoprobe as existing in the real world is an optical
device. It was developed by tapering an optical
fiber to a tip measuring 100 nm = 1000 angstroms
wide. Also, a very thin coating of silver nanoparticles helps to enhance the Raman scattering effect of the light.
(The phenomenon of light reflection from an object when illuminated by a laser light is referred to as Raman scattering.) The reflected light
demonstrates vibration energies unique to each object (samples in this case),
which can be characterised and identified. The silver nanoparticles in this technique provides for
the rapid oscillations of electrons,
adding to vibration energies, and thus enhancing Raman Scattering -- commonly known as
surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS). These SERS nanoprobes
produce higher electromagnetic fields enabling higher signal
output--eventually resulting in accurate detection and analysis of samples.
Nanoscale machines used to diagnose, image, report
on, and treat disease within the body. See "Cell
Repair Machine", "Nanites",
"Nanobots", and "Nanomachine".
Also: tips for scanning probe microscopes.
Nanoscale machines used to diagnose, image, report
on, and treat disease within the body. See "Cell
Repair Machine", "Nanites",
"Nanobots", and "Nanomachine".
Also: tips for scanning probe microscopes. Courtesy of, and Copyright 1999 by
Time Inc. Reprinted by Permission. "Anatomy of a Nanoprobe" by Joe
Lertola. 11/08/99 issue of Time. Reproduction strictly prohibited without
permission of Time.
