Open AccessInterference and resonant cavity effects explain enhanced transmission through subwavelength apertures in thin metal films
Author(s) -
P. D. Flammer,
Ian Schick,
R. T. Collins,
R. E. Hollingsworth
Publication year - 2007
Publication title -
optics express
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.394
H-Index - 271
ISSN - 1094-4087
DOI - 10.1364/oe.15.007984
Subject(s) - optics , opacity , surface plasmon polariton , materials science , extraordinary optical transmission , surface plasmon , interference (communication) , aperture (computer memory) , grating , transmission (telecommunications) , polariton , diffraction grating , plasmon , optoelectronics , physics , telecommunications , channel (broadcasting) , computer science , acoustics
Transmission through an opaque Au film with a single subwavelength aperture centered in a smooth cavity between linear grating structures is studied experimentally and with a finite element model. The model is in good agreement with measured results and is used to investigate local field behavior. It shows that a surface plasmon polariton (SPP) is launched along the metal surface, while interference of the SPP with the incident light along with resonant cavity effects give rise to suppression and enhancement in transmission. Based on experimental and modeling results, peak location and structure of the enhancement/suppression bands are explained analytically, confirming the primary role of SPPs in enhanced transmission through small apertures in opaque metal films.