Nanoapertures without nanolithography

摘要： We propose and experimentally demonstrate the implementation of lithography-free nano-apertures on optical fibers. By sputtering metallic nanofilms onto the end face of step index fibers that contain central nano-channels, fiber-integrated nano-apertures are instantaneously implemented without the use of any kind of lithographic step. In accordance with simulations, the experiments show diffraction-limited nano-spots in the far-field at the location of the nano-aperture for sufficiently thick films. We reproducibly implement a series of devices by sputtering Al and Pt nano-films, reaching aperture diameters as small as 40 nm and showing spectrally broadband operation. Due to its simplicity, scalability and potential for large-scale production the nano-aperture enhanced fiber concept will be highly relevant for lab-on-a-fiber applications and for the development of future fiber-based nano-probes with high spatial resolutions.