Plasmonics - from nanoscale integrated circuits to nano-photovoltaics

This work presents cathodoluminescence plasmon microscopy, where in surface plasmons are excited using the nanoscale spot of a 30 keV electron beam. Plasmonic density of states are imaged by collecting radiation in the far-field, with a resolution as small as 10 nm. This study presents the propagation and reflection of light on plasmonic metal surfaces and demonstrates light confinement in a V-groove whispering gallery nanocavity. In addition, the use of plasmonic nanostructures is also addressed for enhancing the infrared sensitivity and light trapping in thin-film solar cells.