This thesis describes a study into the plasmonic properties of nanostructured metallic films. Structures are produced by electrochemically depositing metal through a self-assembled template of polymer micro-spheres. This versatile technique allows nano-structures made from metals which can be electrodeposited to be produced quickly and cheaply. Geometries ranging from arrays of shallow dishes, to sharp metallic spikes and encapsulated spherical cavities can all be produced on the same sample. This thesis presents an in-depth study into the properties of delocalised and localised surface plasmons on these structures. These plasmons can be tuned in energy by controlling the sample geometry and local dielectric environment. Techniques are explored for modifying the energy, absorption strength and field distribution of plasmon modes for specific applications. With an understanding into the plasmonic properties of the metallic nanostructures, research is undertaken to explore how the associated local electric-field couples to molecules adsorbed onto a sample surface. The role of specific plasmon modes in enhanced Raman scattering is identified, and then optimised using multilayer nanostructures with tailored plasmon modes. Finally, the use of flexible elastomeric substrates for mechanically tuneable plasmonic substrates is explored.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:bl.uk/oai:ethos.bl.uk:597832 |
| Date | January 2009 |
| Creators | Cole, R. M. |
| Publisher | University of Cambridge |
| Source Sets | Ethos UK |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Electronic Thesis or Dissertation |
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