Surface waves at metal-dielectric interfaces: Material science perspective

Surface modes at interfaces, especially, the surface plasmon polaritons at metal-dielectric interfaces localize field. Associated applications are well pursued in addition to their basic properties which themselves are interesting. There are several metal-dielectric geometries that support surface modes like the gap, Tamm, spoof, and magneto-plasmons. After a brief pedagogical overview of these surface modes and the often-used dispersion measurement techniques, material science aspects like the quest for lossless plasmonic metal, dispersionless plasmonic structures, and plasmon dynamics are discussed. Some of the open problems are presented.