Abstract

A new concept is proposed for an optical probe with spatial resolution unlimited by diffraction effects. It is based on optical-field confinement by surface plasmons of a submicrometer-sized metal particle. The particle serves as an antenna that receives an incoming electromagnetic field. The field extends to a nearby sample surface and interacts with a small area on that surface through the nonlinear susceptibility tensors. The induced sample polarization is reradiated by the particle, thereby generating a Raman, a two-photon, or a second-harmonic spectrum. Microscopy is performed by rastering the position of the metal particle over the sample surface. Spatial resolution approaching 1 nm is projected. The concept is also applicable to submicrometer optical lithography and ultrahigh-density optical recording.

© 1985 Optical Society of America

Optical phenomena at a silver surface with siibmicroscopic bumps

G. Ritchie, E. Burstein, and R. B. Stephens
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Effect of optical constants on calculated values of surface-enhanced Raman scattering

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