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

Abstract

Cu_2−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 Cu_2−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 Cu_2−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.