Date of Award
5-2016
Document Type
Honors Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science
Department
Nanoscale Science
Advisor/Committee Chair
Michael A. Carpenter
Abstract
Geometry for a plasmonically active micro-propeller is designed in Matlab using a Metallic Nano-Particle Boundary Element Method (MNPBEM) toolbox in order to predict its optical response in long wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation. Electric field maps are plotted to determine the feasibility generating torque using the energy harvesting principle. Results indicate electric field lines that would promote rotation and the scattering cross section would cause nano-rods sitting on the propeller to radiate thermal energy. COMSOL modeling is performed to model the evolution natural convection currents as a result of the nano-rod heating which is then optimized to further promote rotation of the micro-propeller.
Recommended Citation
Shih, Jerry, "Optimization and Modeling of an Energy Harvesting Optical Micropropeller for Microfluidic Applications" (2016). Nanoscale Science & Engineering (discontinued with class year 2014). 19.
https://scholarsarchive.library.albany.edu/honorscollege_nano/19