Following fast development in several decades, plasmonics has stepped into a new horizon, where not only the intriguing optical properties of plasmonic structures and systems matter but also their functionalities, especially promising applications in different spectral regimes are of paramount importance. A better understanding of the profound properties from the molecular to submicron level opens a new pathway to designing functional plasmonic materials and devices.

This tutorial will focus on both the fundamentals and applications of functional plasmonics from the visible to the microwave regime.

Giessen will discuss advanced top-down fabrications and applications of functional plasmonics in the near-infrared and visible regimes, which provide a promising path to practicality. Complex plasmonic structures allow for tailoring resonances and functionality. Gold and silver with atomically flat surfaces and single crystalline atomic arrangements represent ultimate material quality. Hybrid materials enable chiral as well as nonreciprocal responses. Active switching is enabled by phase change materials as well as metal-¬to-¬insulator transitions. New materials for plasmonics include Yttrium and its hydrides, refractory materials such as TiN, as well as the highly reactive magnesium, whose particle plasmons can be switched on and off by hydrogen and oxygen. Novel fabrication methods such as two-photon femtosecond direct laser writing, colloidal-etching lithography and interference lithography allow for low-cost and large-area fabrication of functional plasmonic devices.

Harald Giessen

University of Stuttgart

Appearances