Plasmonic Cu2-xS nanoparticles: a brief introduction of optical properties and applications

Cu2-xS (0 < x 1) nanoparticles (NPs) heavily doped with copper vacancies can support localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) in near-infrared and mid-infrared spectral wavelengths, causing resonant absorption, scattering of photons and near-surface electric field enhancement. In this review, we will firstly discuss the fundamentals of optical responses in Cu2-xS and their numerical modeling, followed by the highlights of their flexible LSPR manipulation and LSPR correlated photoluminescence. Furthermore, we will present recently exploited applications based on the LSPR of Cu2-xS NPs. Finally, we will give a brief conclusion of the review and discuss the remaining open issues relating to the particle synthesis, chemistries, physics, optics and industrial applications, and we will propose some possible further research directions as well.

Automated summary

This review discusses the properties of Cu2-xS NPs doped with copper vacancies, which can support localized surface plasmon resonance in near-infrared and mid-infrared spectral wavelengths. The review covers the fundamentals of optical responses, flexible LSPR manipulation, LSPR correlated photoluminescence, and recently exploited applications based on the LSPR of Cu2-xS NPs. It also highlights remaining open issues and suggests possible further research directions.