Tuning and characterization of self-assembled plasmonic nanoparticle arrays

Abstract

This thesis details the development and use of a novel nano-entity fabrication technique. The technique is based on a glancing angle deposition (GLAD) on transparent stepped templates. It is demonstrated that the technique is functionally independent of the deposited material as evidenced by the growth of ordered nanoparticle (NP) arrays of Ag, Au and Cu. Furthermore, the morphology of the systems grown can be changed through choice of the deposition parameters. This allows a complete tuning of the plasmonic resonances measured mainly with reflectance anisotropy spectroscopy. Finally, the self-assembled noble metal NP arrays have been used as building blocks for Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS) experiments, demonstrating a strong enhancement in the Raman signal measured.