Plasmonic Effects in Noble Metal Liquid Metal Based Core Shell Nanoparticles

Abstract

Nanoplasmonics is a widely recognized field that aims to confine electromagnetic waves below the diffraction limit. This confinement is achieved through the collective oscillation of free electrons within metal nanoparticles when exposed to light, known as localized surface plasmon resonances (LSPRs). These LSPRs exhibit robust optical properties and generate heightened near-electric fields around the nanoparticles, leading to applications in image sensing, medical diagnostics, photothermal therapy, and cancer treatments. While traditional exploration has focused on noble metal nanoparticles, recent developments are steering towards hybrid nanosystems to unlock more advanced properties. The pursuit of liquid metals in plasmonics presents the potential for heightened optical efficiencies, rapid kinetics, seamless embedding into nanostructures, versatility, low-temperature processing, and the creation of stretchable devices. This innovative approach holds promise for pushing the boundaries of plasmonic applications and contributing to the evolution of flexible and wearable technologies. newline newlineTo accurately characterize the optical properties of these structures, it is imperative to assess their suitability for specific applications requiring precise frequency domains. Computational tools, including Mie theory, discrete dipole approximation (DDA), and boundary element method (BEM), have been employed to analyze the optical response of plasmon resonance and the associated enhancements in field strength. newline newlineThis thesis forms a library of liquid metal and liquid alloys in the field of flexible and reconfigurable plasmonics for optimal core size, shell thickness, hybrid materials and shapes. The results can guide the optimization of plasmonic nanostructures, ensuring the selection of appropriate material, size, and shape based on specific application needs within particular regions of the electromagnetic (EM) spectrum. newline newline