Plasmonic meta-atoms and metasurfaces

Despite the extraordinary degree of interest in optical metamaterials in recent years, the hoped-for devices and applications have, in large part, yet to emerge. It is becoming clear that the first generation of metamaterial-based devices will most probably arise from their two-dimensional equivalents - metasurfaces. In this Review, we describe recent progress in the area of metasurfaces formed from plasmonic meta-atoms. In particular, we approach the subject from the perspective of the fundamental excitations supported by the meta-atoms and the interactions between them. We also identify some areas ripe for future research and indicate likely avenues for future device development.