The discrete dipole approximation
The discrete dipole approximation permits the calculation of the scattering and absorption cross-section of particles or arbitrary geometery. The first step in DDA modelling is to break the target geometry into a cubic array of dipoles.
![family of rods](images/allrods.png)
In the case of the nanorods shown above (typically 10nm in diameter and with aspect ratios up to 6 or 8), we are particularly interested in the relationship between the spectrum generated by the rod and the spectra of the inscribed and exscribed cylinders.
![rod in relation to cylinder](images/cylrods.png)
Results from simulations of the extinction cross-section for these rods and cylinders can now be compared with some sample experimental data [1].
![DDA and experimentally determined extinction](images/lambda_max_expt-small.png)
We are also interested in the spectra generated by geometries including triangular and hexagonal prisms.
![Other shapes: triangular prism](images/triangle380.png)
References
- Gold nanorod extinction spectra. SW Prescott and P Mulvaney. Journal of Applied Physics, 99, 123504, 2006.
Last edited: Tuesday September 9, 2008
Copyright © 1996-2014 Stuart Prescott