Abstract

Optofluidics, a new class of optical devices with optical interfaces
formed between two liquids, possess unique characteristics that are
not achievable in conventional solid-state optical systems. In
optofluidic systems, it is possible to reconfigure and fine-tune the
optical output in real time by manipulating liquid composition or the
shape of the liquid-liquid interface dynamically. In addition,
liquid-liquid interfaces are intrinsically smooth as a result of
minimization of interfacial energy. Polishing is thus unnecessary.
Furthermore, it is straightforward to obtain a graded profile of
refractive index by taking advantage of diffusion between miscible
liquids possessing different refractive indices to create devices such
as GRIN lenses. This talk focuses on the design and development of
optical components based on dynamic liquid-liquid interfaces in
microfluidic systems: liquid waveguides, lenses, and multi-color
droplet dye lasers.