Localized Surface Plasmonic Properties of Au and Ag Nanoparticles for Sensors: a Review

In the last two decades, plasmonic resonance in metallic nanoparticles (Au, Ag NPs) has created intensive research efforts in nanoscale optics, photonics and sensors. When light interacts with free electrons inside conductive nanoparticles (NPs) with small size as compared with incident wavelength, then at a particular resonant frequency, there is a localized surface plasmonic oscillation which strongly depends on geometry, size, composition and separation between nanoparticles. This interaction of electromagnetic wave is correlated with more enhancement of field intensity which leads to increase in excitation rate and quantum yields. In this review, the evolution of Localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) in the metallic nanostructures for enhancement of sensitivity of sensors has been elaborated. The challenges and benefits linked with different nanostructures and detection systems, along with these innovational addresses that have been evolved to enhance sensitivity and limits of detection, are also described in this review paper.

Automated summary

Plasmonic resonance in metallic nanoparticles has led to intensive research in nanoscale optics and sensors, enhancing electromagnetic wave interactions and sensitivity of sensors. The advantages, challenges, and innovative approaches for improving sensitivity and detection limits of different nanostructures and detection systems have been elaborated in this review.