Using a platform based on large-area arrays of nanopyramids, Northwestern researchers provided the first side-by-side comparison of traditional and relatively unexplored plasmonic materials. Three key findings of these results are: (1) the narrowest surface plasmon resonances to date (< 6 nm); (2) surface plasmon coupling efficiencies of weak plasmonic materials (Cu and Al) that exceed those of strong plasmonic materials (Ag and Au) under certain conditions; and (3) nanopatterned Pd substrates that were more sensitive than Ag ones for detecting biomolecules.
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