Film of metal particles guides light

Aug. 21, 2000
Brian Soller and Dennis Hall of the University of Rochester (Rochester, NY) have observed the propagation of guided light waves confined to the surface of a discontinuous film of silver (Ag) nanoparticles.

Brian Soller and Dennis Hall of the University of Rochester (Rochester, NY) have observed the propagation of guided light waves confined to the surface of a discontinuous film of silver (Ag) nanoparticles. The 457.9-nm light, which was p-polarized, was confined by a two-dimensional disordered array of particles with average diameter of 400 nm and average height of 150 nm. The finding has significance for the design of nanocomposite optical materials.

The mode propagates at frequencies close to the strong plasma-resonance absorption in the film and is least-lossy at frequencies where the nanoparticle layer has a large absorption. The mode is likely the result of coupling between incident light and the particle plasma resonances of the nanoparticle layer, say the researchers. The Ag particles themselves were formed on top of a 30-nm-thick layer of lithium fluoride (LiF) by evaporation in vacuum; surface irregularities in the LiF aided in the production of evenly sized Ag particles. No signs of surface waves were observed for s-polarized radiation. By comparing theoretical calculations with reflectivity data, the researchers determined that the TM2 mode is responsible for the excitation driving the surface-mode propagation. Contact Brian Soller at [email protected].

Sponsored Recommendations

Flexible, Thixotropic, One Component Dual Cure Epoxy

Dec. 1, 2023
Master Bond UV23FLDC-80TK is a moderate viscosity, cationic type system that offers both UV light and heat curing mechanisms. It cures readily within 20-30 seconds when exposed...

MRF Polishing

Dec. 1, 2023
Welcome to Avantier, your esteemed partner in optical solutions for over five decades. With a legacy of expert knowledge, we invite you to delve into the realm of precision optics...

Fluorescence Microscopy Part 1: Illuminating Samples for High-Resolution Imaging

Dec. 1, 2023
Illuminating Samples Fluorescence microscopy is a powerful imaging technique widely used in various fields, especially in biomedical research, to visualize and study fluorescently...

Photonics Business Moves: December 1, 2023

Dec. 1, 2023
Here are the top four photonics business moves that made headlines during the week ending December 1, 2023.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Laser Focus World, create an account today!