Plasmonics is a vital area within photonics, focusing on components that utilize surface plasmon polariton modes from metal-dielectric configurations, promising applications in sensing and on-chip data transmission. Recently, dielectric-loaded plasmon polariton waveguides have gained attention for their ease of manufacture and potential in miniaturizing optical circuits. Two-photon polymerization direct laser writing has proven effective for fabricating these waveguides. This thesis builds on prior work by introducing a nanolithography process that enhances the manufacturing technique. It addresses the main limitation of direct laser writing by developing a parallel fabrication process, making the creation of plasmonic waveguides more flexible, faster, and cost-effective. The new designs presented include polarization-dependent splitters, Mach-Zehnder interferometers, and racetrack resonators, characterized through leakage radiation microscopy and compared to similar structures made by other methods, showing improved performance. Additionally, the thesis explores localized surface plasmons, examining their interference and interactions with metal nanoparticles, revealing new optical effects. The research culminated in nine peer-reviewed articles and several conference contributions.
