Precise detection of circular dichroism in a cluster of nano-helices by photoacoustic measurements

Compact samples of nano-helices built by means of a focused ion beam technology with large bandwidth and high dichroism for circular polarization are promising for the construction of built-in-chip sensors, where the ideal transducer must be sufficiently confined without compromising its filtering ability. Direct all-optical measurements revealed the sample's dichroic character with insufficient details because of scattering and diffraction interference. On the other hand, photoacoustic measurements resulted to be a possible alternative investigation, since they directly deal with absorbed power and allow to get clear evidences of the differential selection for the two opposite polarization states. Multi-level numerical simulations confirmed the experimental results, proving once again the reliability of photoacoustic technique and the versatility of this class of dichroic artificial materials.