Super-Resolution Imaging by Arrays of High-Index Spheres Embedded in Transparent Matrices

TL;DR

This paper presents a method using PDMS films embedded with high-index microspheres for super-resolution imaging, achieving approximately seven times the diffraction limit resolution, enhancing conventional microscopy.

Contribution

Introduction of a thin PDMS film with embedded high-index microspheres for super-resolution imaging of nanoplasmonic structures.

Findings

Achieved lateral resolution of ~λ/7 in nanoplasmonic dimer arrays.

Enabled control of microsphere position for targeted imaging.

Enhanced resolution capability of standard microscopes.

Abstract

We fabricated thin-films made from polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) with embedded high-index (n~1.9-2.2) microspheres for super-resolution imaging applications. To control the position of microspheres, such films can be translated along the surface of the nanoplasmonic structure to be imaged. Microsphere-assisted imaging, through these matrices, provided lateral resolution of ~{\lambda}/7 in nanoplasmonic dimer arrays with an illuminating wavelength {\lambda}=405 nm. Such thin films can be used as contact optical components to boost the resolution capability of conventional microscopes.