In situ reflection imaging and microspectroscopic study on three-dimensional crystal growth of L-phenylalanine under laser trapping

We investigate growth behavior of an L-phenylalanine crystal formed by laser trapping with the use of reflection imaging and microspectroscopy. Optical reflection micrographs show colored images of the crystal due to constructive interference of incident white light. The color distribution on the crystal is dynamically changed under laser trapping, which is in addition to enlargement of the crystal plane area. The temporal change in the crystal thickness is examined by measuring reflection spectra of the crystal. We discuss the three-dimensional crystal growth under laser trapping by comprehensively considering the changes in crystal thickness and crystal plane area.