plasmonics
Plasmonics is a field of study that focuses on the interaction between light and metal surfaces at the nanoscale. It involves the excitation of plasmons, which are collective oscillations of free electrons in metals. These oscillations can enhance electromagnetic fields, allowing for applications in sensors, imaging, and energy harvesting.
The unique properties of plasmonic materials enable the manipulation of light in ways that traditional optics cannot achieve. This has led to advancements in technologies such as surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) and plasmonic solar cells, which improve the efficiency of light absorption and conversion.