Optical Separation of Chiral Molecules

Stanford researchers have developed an optical method to separate chiral molecules. Existing enantiomer separation methods remain challenging, costly and inefficient. Using Stanford's method, resonant nanoparticles or particle arrays are placed near a molecular solution. When illuminated with circularly polarized light, the nanomaterials enhance the differential absorption between chiral enantiomers, allowing separation via photoionization or photolysis. The nanomaterials are not attached to the molecules and can be readily removed from the chiral solution. The method is ideal for natural product synthesis and pharmaceutical drug development where enantiopure drug versions would increase efficacy and decrease unwanted side-effects.

Stage of research
Researchers completed and presented proof of concept simulations. Next steps include testing various nanoparticle arrays and metasurfaces to enhance enantioselective photodestruction.