Theory of electron energy loss near plasmonic wires, nanorods, and cones

Abstract

We present an analytical description of the electron energy loss near plasmonic nanostructures with cylindrical symmetry as a three-step process: (i) electron-induced excitation of surface plasmon modes, (ii) their propagation and reflection, and (iii) the backaction on the electrons. The model incorporates relativistic effects, retardation, and light emission, and can treat arbitrary tilted electron trajectories. Convincing agreement with recent experimental data is demonstrated.