Quantum coherence has previously been used to enhance nonlinear optical signals such as coherent Raman scattering. Near field enhancement from plasmonic nanostructures can also dramatically improve Raman signals. We investigate quantum coherence effects in plasmonic nanostructures coupled to gain media to enhance the efficiency of surface plasmon generation. We simulate the dependence of surface-enhanced coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering (SECARS) spectra on the position and line width of the surface plasmon resonance, and attribute small (and even negative) enhancement factors to local destructive interference. We report measurements of nanoscale phase effects in SECARS of pyridazine on gold nanoparticle aggregates, and propose strategies to increase enhancement factors towards theoretical predictions.

Date Published: 13 November 2014
PDF: 1 pages
Proc. SPIE 9163, Plasmonics: Metallic Nanostructures and Their Optical Properties XII, 916325 (13 November 2014); doi: 10.1117/12.2062428

Published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 9163:
Plasmonics: Metallic Nanostructures and Their Optical Properties XII
Allan D. Boardman, Editor(s)