Transverse radiation force in a tailored optical fiber

Abstract

We show, by means of simple model calculations, how a weak laser beam sent through an optical fiber exerts a transverse radiation force if there is an azimuthal asymmetry present in the fiber such that one side has a slightly different refractive index than the other. The refractive index difference $\Delta n$ needs only to be very small, of order $10^{-3}$, in order to produce an appreciable transverse displacement of order 10 microns. We argue that the effect has probably already been seen in a recent experiment of She et al. [Phys. Rev. Lett. 101, 243601 (2008)], and we discuss correspondence between these observations and the theory presented. The effect could be used to bend optical fibers in a predictable and controlled manner and we propose that it could be useful for micron-scale devices.

4 pages, 3 figures. Accepted for publication as Rapid Communication in Phys. Rev. A

References in corpus (2)

• Observation of a push force on the end face of a nm fiber taper exerted by outgoing light
• Momentum exchange between light and a single atom: Abraham or Minkowski?

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• Is the Abraham electromagnetic force physical?
• Explanation for the Transverse Radiation Force Observed on a Vertically Hanging Fiber
• Plane wave in a moving medium and resolution of the Abraham-Minkowski debate by the special principle of relativity
• Solution and testing of the Abraham-Minkowski controversy in light-atom interacting system