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A Silicon-tipped Fiber-optic Sensing Platform with High Resolution and Fast Response
Published on: January 7, 2019
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Highly sensitive differential fiber-optic SPR sensor in telecom band
Optics Express
|November 13, 2020
Summary
This study introduces a highly sensitive fiber-optic SPR remote sensor operating in the C-band telecom spectrum. It achieves ultra-high sensitivity for refractive index measurements, ideal for advanced biosensing applications.
Area of Science:
- Photonics and Optical Sensing
- Nanomaterials and Thin Films
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Fiber-optic sensors offer remote monitoring capabilities.
- Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) is a sensitive detection technique.
- Integrating SPR with fiber optics in the telecom C-band can enhance performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a differential fiber-optic SPR remote sensor with ultra-high sensitivity.
- To operate the sensor within the C-band for low-loss optical fiber communication.
- To enable precise refractive index measurements for biosensing applications.
Main Methods:
- Designed a sensor head using a BK7 prism coated with gold/titanium dioxide (Au/TiO2) films.
- Employed differential intensity interrogation across two channels.
- Utilized the C-band's low loss and sharp angular resonant response for enhanced sensitivity.
Main Results:
- Achieved a sensitivity of 456 V/RIU within a narrow measurement range of 1.3x10^-2 RIU.
- Attained a resolution of 6x10^-6 RIU.
- Demonstrated tunability of the measurement range by adjusting TiO2 film thickness.
Conclusions:
- The differential fiber-optic SPR sensor exhibits ultra-high sensitivity and resolution.
- The sensor's design is suitable for remote monitoring and biosensing applications.
- Adjustable measurement range and potential for expansion offer practical advantages.

