  For all applications of plasmonics to technology it is required to tailor the
resonance to the optical system in question. This chapter gives an
understanding of the design considerations for nanoparticles needed to tune the
resonance. First the basic concepts of plasmonics are reviewed with a focus on
the physics of nanoparticles. An introduction to the finite element method is
given with emphasis on the suitability of the method to nanoplasmonic device
simulation. The effects of nanoparticle shape on the spectral position and
lineshape of the plasmonic resonance are discussed including retardation and
surface curvature effects. The most technologically important plasmonic
materials are assessed for device applicability and the importance of
substrates in light scattering is explained. Finally the application of
plasmonic nanoparticles to photovoltaic devices is discussed.

Optics