Thesis defence

Title :
Nanomaterial synthesis and assemblies for solution-processed gap plasmon resonators
 
Abstract :
Plasmonic nanocavities can confine light in small volumes, enhancing the electromagnetic field and offering a highly sensitive platform. This tunability is achieved by adjusting nanoparticle size, gap size, and refractive index using plasmonic nanocrystals coupled to metal films via dielectric spacers. These phenomena are crucial for applications in optoelectronics, quantum optics, and sensors. This thesis investigates gap plasmon resonators made of silver nanocubes and gold mirrors, separated by thin dielectric layers. We use statistical and correlative techniques to study the relationship between structure and plasmonic response. Over 800 resonators were analyzed, revealing insights into system sensitivity. The platform also helps assess the removal of capping ligands (e.g., PVP), which affect nanoelectronics performance. Polarization-resolved measurements on annealed TiO2 layers revealed an unexpected splitting of the resonance, attributed to birefringent behavior. We extend this work to develop plasmonic sensors for detecting organic vapors (VOCs). Polymers used as spacer layers enhance the sensitivity of these sensors for detecting VOCs and other gaseous analytes. This research aims to create a new generation of highly sensitive and selective plasmonic sensors.
The Board of members are : 
 
Sébastien BIDAULT, PSL Université, ESPCI Paris, Institut Langevin, Reviewer
Marc LAMY DE LA CHAPELLE, Université Le Mans, IMMM, Reviewer
Stéphan Thierry DUBAS, Chulalongkorn university, PPC,  Examiner
Aude LEREU, Aix Marseille Université, Institut Fresnel , President of jury 
Olivier MARGEAT, Aix Marseille Université, CINaM, Thesis supervisor
Beniamino SCIACCA, Aix Marseille Université, CINaM, Thesis co-supervisor
Pauline BENNET, Aix Marseille Université, IM2NP, Guest member