Laser-fabricated dielectric optical components for surface plasmon polaritons

Fabrication of dielectric optical components for surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs) by two-photon polymerization (2PP) is studied. This direct-write femtosecond laser technology provides a low-cost and flexible method for the fabrication and investigation of plasmonic structures and optical components. Using the 2PP technique, we fabricated narrow dielectric ridges with dimensions as small as 150 nm on metal surfaces. SPP excitation with the laser-fabricated structures and guiding along them are demonstrated. (c) 2006 Optical Society of America