Measuring the complex forward-scattering amplitude of single particles by self-reference interferometry: CAS-v1 protocol

Theoretical and experimental bases are given for measuring the complex forward-scattering amplitude of single particles through self-reference interferometry. Our analyses reveal the nondimensional parameters that primarily control the accuracy and resolution of the complex amplitude data. We propose a measurement protocol, Complex Amplitude Sensing version 1 (CAS-v1), for effectively utilizing self-reference interferometry as a universal tool for inline measurements of the complex forward-scattering amplitude of single sub- and super-micron particles suspended in a fluid flow. The CAS-v1 protocol will facilitate applications of self-reference interferometry to real-time particle measurements in the industrial, biomedical, and environmental sciences. (C) 2021 Optical Society of America under the terms of the OSA Open Access Publishing Agreement

Automated summary

This study presents a theoretical and experimental basis for measuring the complex forward-scattering amplitude of single particles through self-reference interferometry. The proposed CAS-v1 protocol aims to utilize self-reference interferometry effectively for inline measurements of single sub- and super-micron particles, facilitating real-time particle measurements in various scientific fields.