Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 16, 2026
11:44
Surface Enhanced Raman Spectroscopy Detection of Biomolecules Using EBL Fabricated Nanostructured Substrates
Published on: March 20, 2015
Surface plasmon sensing with different metals in single and double layer configurations.
Dmitry V Nesterenko1, Saif-ur-Rehman, Zouheir Sekkat
1Moroccan Foundation for Science & Innovation & Research, Optics & Photonics Centre, Rabat, Morocco.
Applied Optics
|December 4, 2012
Summary
Surface plasmon resonance sensors using aluminum (Al) or silver (Ag) layers offer varying resolutions for detecting refractive index changes. Al is best for ultraviolet, while Ag excels at longer wavelengths.
Area of Science:
- Optoelectronics and Sensor Technology
- Materials Science for Sensing Applications
Background:
- Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensors are crucial for detecting minute changes in refractive index.
- The Kretschmann configuration is a standard geometry for SPR sensing.
- Optimizing metallic layers is key to enhancing SPR sensor performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To numerically simulate and estimate the resolution of SPR sensors.
- To evaluate different metallic layer combinations (silver, copper, aluminum) with a gold coating.
- To assess sensor performance for detecting bulk refractive index changes and adsorption layer optical thickness variations.
Main Methods:
- Numerical simulations were employed to model SPR sensor performance.
- Various thicknesses of silver (Ag), copper (Cu), and aluminum (Al) layers, coated with gold (Au), were analyzed.
- Sensor resolution was estimated across a range of wavelengths.
Main Results:
- The study identified optimal metallic layer configurations for different wavelength regions.
- Single aluminum (Al) layers demonstrated the highest resolution in the ultraviolet (UV) spectrum.
- Single silver (Ag) layers provided the best resolution for longer wavelengths.
Conclusions:
- The choice of metallic layer significantly impacts SPR sensor resolution.
- Aluminum is optimal for UV-based SPR sensing, while silver is preferred for longer wavelengths.
- These findings guide the design of high-resolution SPR sensors for specific applications.
