These notes primarily follow Plasmonics: Fundamentals and Applications and Plasmonics: From Basics to Advanced Topics. However, also some review papers are integrated, such as Theory of surface plasmons and surface-plasmon polaritonsand Theory and Modeling of Plasmonic Structures. My interest in this subject stems from its relevance to my current research, which we explore in the Attoline.

Table of Contents

Plasmonics forms a major part of the field of nanophotonics, which explores how electromagnetic fields can be confined over dimensions on the order of or smaller than the wavelength. It is based on interaction processes between electromagnetic radiation and conduction electrons at metallic interfaces or in small metallic nanostructures, leading to an enhanced optical near field of sub-wavelength dimensions. Research in this area demonstrates how unexpected behaviour can occur when discontinuities or sub-wavelength structures are imposed. This field is firmly grounded in classical physics.

Roughly speaking, the field of plasmonics is 100 years old, yet it remains an active area of research. Four elements underlie current research in plasmonics:

1. The ready availability of state-of-the-art fabrication methods, particularly for implementing nanostructures.
2. The wealth of high-sensitivity optical characterisation techniques.
3. The rapid advancement in computing power and speed, allowing for powerful numerical modelling tools.
4. The wide range of applications, from solar cells to high-resolution microscopy, drug design, and more.

Table of Contents

1 Electromagnetics of Metals
2 Surface Plasmon Polaritons at Metal-Insulator Interfaces
3 Excitation of Surface Plasmon Polaritons at Planar Interfaces
4 Imaging Surface Plasmon Polariton Propagation
5 Localised Surface Plasmons