Metallic and plasmonic nanolasers

There has been recent rapid progress in the miniaturization of the laser via the use of metallic structures to form the resonant cavity of the laser. It is likely that the unique characteristics of small metallic lasers will lead to their near term use in applications. This chapter seeks to provide some of the major concepts and literature references necessary for understanding these devices. Furthermore, to provide a review of the progress in the field and a base from which further development and innovation can occur. To achieve these goals, the chapter looks at the basic modeling of the metal structures with gain medium. An overview of the various demonstrated small metallic laser designs is given, with the emphasis on encapsulated metal devices. Also some of the technology issues are discussed for specific designs. Finally, some of the areas that need more attention in the future are identified.