Fluorophore properties metal-enhanced fluorescence

We are now looking at extending the simple model for free-space fluorescence to the case of Metal Enhanced Fluorescence (MEF). We therefore consider a fluorophore with known free-space properties in the presence of optically-active objects (in particular metallic objects). 

Surface enhanced fluorescence (SEE) takes place in the proximity of metal structures. The effect of fluorescence enhancement has been intensively studied by several groups [74]. In the proximity of metals, the fluorophore radiative properties are modified and an increase in the spontaneous emission rate is observed. 

When a fluorophore is located in close proximity to a metal surface, both its absorption and emission properties may be affected dramatically. This in turn affects its fluorescence properties and may result in either a quenching or an enhancement of the fluorescence signal. This latter situation is obviously of interest for many applications using fluorophores. Let us discuss these steps in more detail. 

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