Abstract
We demonstrate that fluorescence of single molecules in the nanometric vicinity of a thin gold film can be effectively excited and detected through the film with an epi-illumination scanning confocal microscope. A full theoretical treatment of the fluorescence signal indicates that both excitation and emission are surface-plasmon mediatea. Remarkably, the number of photons detectable from chromophores perpendicular to the interface is enhanced by the presence of the metal.
Original language | English |
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Article number | 023005 |
Number of pages | 4 |
Journal | Physical Review Letters |
Volume | 94 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 21 Jan 2005 |
Externally published | Yes |