THIN-FOIL SURFACE-PLASMON MODIFICATION IN SCANNING-PROBE MICROSCOPY

The modification of the surface-plasmon dispersion relation in a thin foil by the near-zone effects of a scanned probe offers optical data t hat yields interesting forms of microscopy and spectroscopy. An exact solution for this effect is obtained here by taking advantage of the a pplicability of nonretarded electrodynamics in prolate spheroidal coor dinates. Using the known optical properties of the materials, the modi fying parameters and dispersion relations are discussed. Both planar a nd curved foils are examined.