Light propagation mapping in surface waveguides using nano carbon probe grown on polymer tipped optical fiber

We report on the fabrication, simulation and use of carbon nano-probes grown on the apex of polymer-tipped optical fibers. The carbon needles are used as near-field scattering probes to image light propagation in surface waveguides. The scattered light is selectively and efficiently coupled in the supporting optical fiber through the polymeric structure which is used here as a submicronic collection optics. This combination leads to high spatial resolution and high detection efficiency.