Remote Activation of Capsules Containing Ag Nanoparticles and IR Dye by Laser Light

Abstract
We present a novel method for remote release of an encapsulated material from polyelectrolyte capsules based on laser light illumination. Two different components were introduced in the polyelectrolyte shells of PAH/PSS capsuleseither Ag nanoparticles or IR dyeto induce absorption of light. Under laser illumination the capsules containing Ag nanoparticles or IR dye were deformed or cut, thus providing a venue for remote release of encapsulated materials. The experiments were conducted with a low-power near-infrared continuous-wave laser diode.