Polymer Optical Waveguide Sensor Based on Fe-Amino-Triazole Complex Molecular Switches.

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Optical Engineering
• Chemistry

Background:

• Traditional electronic temperature sensors are susceptible to electromagnetic interference.
• Developing optical temperature sensing systems is crucial for specialized environments.
• Molecular complexes offer unique properties for sensing applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a polymer-waveguide-based temperature sensing system.
• To utilize switchable molecular complexes for temperature detection.
• To enable optical temperature sensing in electromagnetically sensitive environments.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of polymer waveguide cladding using maskless lithography and hot embossing.
• Incorporation of an iron-amino-triazole molecular complex into the waveguide core.
• Measurement of optical power transmission through the waveguide as a function of temperature.

Main Results:

• The molecular complex exhibits a spin-crossover transition, changing spectral properties with temperature.
• The system demonstrates a memory effect with a hysteresis width of approximately 12 °C.
• The sensor achieved a sensitivity of 0.08 mW/°C.

Conclusions:

• A novel optical temperature sensor based on polymer waveguides and molecular complexes has been demonstrated.
• The system provides a viable alternative to electronic sensors in environments with electromagnetic interference.
• The observed hysteresis and sensitivity indicate potential for specific temperature monitoring applications.