Refractive Index and Temperature Sensing Performance of Microfiber Modified by UV Glue Distributed Nanoparticles

Area of Science:

• Photonics and optical sensing
• Nanomaterials science
• Fiber optics technology

Background:

• High refractive index dielectric materials are crucial for photonic devices.
• Microfibers offer a versatile platform for optical signal modulation.
• Nanoparticle modification can enhance microfiber sensing capabilities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the optical and sensing properties of microfibers modified with silicon and silver nanoparticles.
• To compare the refractive index sensing performance of modified microfibers.
• To develop a miniature temperature probe using the modified microfiber.

Main Methods:

• Microfibers were modified with silicon nanoparticles (NPs) and silver NPs in UV glue.
• Optical and sensing properties were studied, varying microfiber morphology and NP concentration.
• Refractive index sensitivity was experimentally determined.
• The microfiber was encapsulated in a capillary for temperature sensing.

Main Results:

• Silicon NP-modified microfibers exhibited a refractive index sensitivity of 1769.7 nm/RIU.
• Silver NP-modified microfibers showed a sensitivity of 1382.3 nm/RIU.
• A miniature temperature probe demonstrated a sensitivity of 2.08 nm/°C within a 28-43 °C range.

Conclusions:

• Microfiber modification with silicon and silver NPs significantly enhances refractive index sensing.
• Silicon NPs offer superior sensitivity compared to silver NPs for refractive index sensing.
• The developed microfiber platform is suitable for creating miniature temperature probes.