Self-assembled optoplasmonic molecules for enhanced light focusing and manipulation on nanometer length scales

Hybrid clusters comprising TiO₂ nanoparticles (NPs) supported by discrete clusters of Au NP were fabricated through a template guided self-assembly strategy, and the electromagnetic interactions between the building blocks were investigated using experimental and theoretical tools. The performed studies reveal that electromagnetic interactions between the building blocks result in an enhancement of both electric and magnetic field components. A redistribution of the optical energy in the cluster increases the E-field intensity not only in hot-spots within the cluster but also in the adjacent ambient environment where it is easily accessible.