Mesoscopic electrodynamics at metal surfaces - From quantum-corrected hydrodynamics to microscopic surface-response formalism

Plasmonic phenomena in metals are commonly explored within the framework of classical electrodynamics and semiclassical models for the interactions of light with free-electron matter. The more detailed understanding of mesoscopic electrodynamics at metal surfaces is, however, becoming increasingly important for both fundamental developments in quantum plasmonics and potential applications in emerging light-based quantum technologies. The review offers a colloquial introduction to recent mesoscopic formalism, ranging from quantum-corrected hydrodynamics to microscopic surface-response formalism, offering also perspectives on possible future avenues.

Automated summary

The study of mesoscopic electrodynamics in metal surfaces is crucial for advancements in quantum plasmonics and potential applications in emerging light-based quantum technologies. Ranging from quantum-corrected hydrodynamics to microscopic surface-response formalism, different mesoscopic formalisms provide a detailed understanding of plasmonic phenomena in metals and offer perspectives on future research directions.