Electromagnetic surface waves: optical sensing and solar cell applications

Electromagnetic surface waves may be excited at the interface of two dissimilar materials. Typically, the excitation of these waves is extremely sensitive to the morphology of the interface. Consequently, electromagnetic surface waves represent an attractive proposition for optical sensing applications. Indeed, surface-plasmon-polariton waves - which are electromagnetic surface waves associated with the interface of metals and dielectric materials - are harnessed in highly sensitive optical sensing devices currently used in analytical chemistry and biology. In addition, the excitation of electromagnetic surface waves is associated with a sharp increase in absorption of incident light. For this reason, in recent years surface-plasmon-polariton waves have been considered for possible solar cell applications. Beyond simple metals and dielectric materials, electromagnetically-complex materials offer greater scope for the excitation of electromagnetic surface waves. For example, certain complex materials can support multiple modes of electromagnetic surface waves which are promising for both optical sensing and solar cell applications.Projects are available which involve the theory underpinning electromagnetic surface waves at the interfaces of dissimilar complex materials, with a view to optical sensing and solar cell applications. For further details, please contact Tom Mackay ([Email Address Removed]).