Modulation Transfer Microscopy - Versatile Tool for Ultrafast Nanoscopy
H. Orlikowska, L. Piatkowski
Institute of Physics, Faculty of Materials Engineering and Technical Physics, Poznań University of Technology, Poznań, Poland
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Marrying the ability of single nanoparticle detection with the potential of tracking its rapid dynamics has provided unprecedented insights into micro- and nanoworld. Decoding the structural and dynamical phenomena at the single particle level, veiled in ensemble experiments, has a profound influence on our understanding of complex physical, chemical and biological processes. Yet, the majority of the techniques rely on the detection of fluorescence and therefore require efficient emissive species and are restricted to nanosecond-scale processes. Both limitations have prompted the advancement of a number of non-fluorescent detection methods, thereby pushing detection sensitivity, spatial and temporal resolution and imaging speed to the limits. In this mini-review, we discuss the recent progress in the time-resolved modulation transfer microscopy for label-free imaging and interrogating the ultrafast phenomena at the nanoscale. First, we cover the basic principles underlying the modulation transfer approach and put together an overview of its applications in different disciplines, specifying the exact contrast mechanism used. Next, we highlight the experimental challenges and limitations of the ultrafast modulation transfer microscopy methods. Finally, we address technical and experimental aspects yet to be realized in practice that potentially could further improve the discussed techniques.

DOI:10.12693/APhysPolA.139.288
topics: pump-probe microscopy, non-fluorescent detection, ultrafast spectroscopy, stimulated emission