Key role of surface plasmon polaritons in generation of periodic surface structures following single-pulse laser irradiation of a gold step edge.

Understanding the mechanisms and controlling the possibilities of surface nanostructuring is of crucial interest for both fundamental science and application perspectives. Here, we report a direct experimental observation of laser-induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) formed near a predesigned gold step edge following single-pulse femtosecond laser irradiation. Simulation results based on a hybrid atomistic-continuum model fully support the experimental observations.

A one-step screening process for optimal alignment of (soft) colloidal particles.

We developed nanostructured gradient wrinkle surfaces to establish a one-step screening process towards optimal assembly of soft and hard colloidal particles (microgel systems and silica particles). Thereby, we simplify studies on the influence of wrinkle dimensions (wavelength, amplitude) on particle properties and their alignment. In a combinatorial experiment, we optimize particle assembly regarding the ratio of particle diameter vs.