Real-time and low-cost sensing technique based on photonic bandgap structures.

Area of Science:

• Photonics
• Biosensing
• Optical Engineering

Background:

• Photonic biosensors are vital for detecting biological analytes.
• Existing methods often require complex and expensive spectral analysis.
• There is a need for cost-effective and sensitive biosensing platforms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and demonstrate a low-cost, high-sensitivity photonic biosensing technique.
• To simplify the readout process for photonic bandgap structures.
• To achieve real-time detection of refractive index variations.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a photonic bandgap structure as the sensing transducer.
• Employed a simplified readout system: broadband source, optical filter, and power meter.
• Eliminated the need for complex transmission spectrum analysis.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated a low-cost system for photonic biosensing.
• Achieved high sensitivity, detecting refractive index variations below 2×10⁻⁶.
• Enabled real-time monitoring without spectral measurements.

Conclusions:

• The proposed technique offers a cost-effective alternative for developing sensitive photonic biosensors.
• Simplified readout enhances practicality and accessibility for real-time applications.
• The method shows significant potential for various biosensing applications requiring high sensitivity.