Design of 2D Plasmonic Diffraction Gratings for Sensing and Super-Resolution Imaging Applications

In this paper we explore how nano-structure arrays can help improve plasmonic sensors and imaging devices. By using a periodic array the range of parameters that can be varied to give a specific response increases dramatically compared to devices based on individual structures. We show that plasmonic arrays can be engineered to show high quality spectral extinction peaks controlled primarily by the angle of incidence and period with minimal dependence on the structure. This gives flexibility in designing plasmonic sensing or imaging devices. The fabrication of the nanostructure arrays is presented as well as optical verification of the localised plasmon resonance response. Spectral simulation results are also obtained for the arrays using Scattering by Multiple Particles in Thin Film Systems (SMUTHI) software which proves to be a useful tool in analysing the response of plasmonic arrays.