Core–Shell Nanoparticle Resonances in Near-Field Microscopy Revealed by Fourier-Demodulated Full-Wave Simulations

Abstract

We present a detailed investigation of the near-field optical response of core−shell nanoparticles using Fourierdemodulated full-wave simulations, revealing significant modifications to established contrast mechanisms in infrared scattering-type scanning near-field optical microscopy (s-SNOM). Our work examined the complex interplay of geometrical and optical resonances within core−shell structures. Using a finite element method (FEM) simulation closely aligned with the actual s-SNOM measurement processes, we capture the specific near-field responses in these nanostructures. Our findings show that core− shell nanoparticles exhibit unexpected distinct resonance shifts and massively enhanced scattering driven by both the core and shell properties. This investigation not only advances the understanding of near-field interactions in complex nanosystems but also provides a refined theoretical framework to accurately predict the optical signatures of nanostructures with internal heterogeneity.