Matias Bargheer

Abstract Ultrafast control of lattice motion in metals is a central challenge for high-frequency strain engineering and spintronic applications. Coherent strain control at terahertz (THz) frequencies in metals has remained elusive because free electrons are expected to delocalize energy beyond the optical penetration depth, preventing rapid and efficient stress generation.

Abstract Light can charge plasmonic nanoparticles by photoredox reactions, significantly modifying their optical and chemical properties. However, the charging process has been challenging to track experimentally, severely hindering its thorough evaluation. In this study, we investigate the charging of gold nanorods during a light-induced reaction in situ, utilizing the sensitivity of the rods’ longitudinal localized surface plasmon resonance to charge accumulation.

Abstract In addition to enhanced fields and possible charge transfer, the concentration of photothermal energy at the nanoscale is a central feature of plasmon-driven photochemistry. It is well known that light energy can be efficiently concentrated in metal nanoparticles to length scales far below the wavelength of light.