Active photonic platforms with structured nanoarrays

We describe active photonic platforms based on structured nano-arrays with periodicities in optical dimensions. Nanocup arrays coated with continuous non-conformal gold films were fabricated with replica molding and simulated with scattering matrix simulations. These exhibit extraordinary optical transmission (EOT) due to the optically thin gold film at the nanocup bottom. The optically enhanced field in nanocups enhanced the spontaneous emission of embedded quantum dots, with Purcell factor enhancements by >80 and measured photoluminescence lifetimes decreased by a factor of ~5 for a quantum dots ensemble. Soluble coatings on these nanocups showed slowed release rates, useful for biomedical applications. Nano-arrays control active light-emission, and surface charging and have promise for diverse nanoplasmonic applications.