Bimodal SPR sensor in a gold-nanowire dual-core PCF

Area of Science:

• Photonics
• Nanotechnology
• Chemical Sensing

Background:

• Surface Plasmon Resonance (SPR) sensors are crucial for detecting changes in refractive index (RI) and temperature.
• Photonic Crystal Fibers (PCFs) offer unique light-confining properties for advanced sensor development.
• Simultaneous dual-parameter sensing enhances analytical capabilities in complex environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and analyze a novel dual-core PCF-based SPR sensor.
• To achieve simultaneous and independent measurement of refractive index (RI) and temperature.
• To optimize the sensor's structural parameters for enhanced sensing performance.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a dual-core photonic crystal fiber (PCF) structure with embedded gold nanowires.
• Implemented separate detection channels for RI (upper) and temperature (lower) sensing.
• Employed the finite element method (FEM) for structural parameter analysis and optimization.

Main Results:

• Achieved a maximum RI sensitivity of 30,321 nm/RIU with a Figure of Merit (FOM) of 594.52 RIU⁻¹.
• Obtained a maximum temperature sensitivity of -6.62 nm/°C within the 0°C to 10°C range.
• Demonstrated simultaneous and independent detection of RI and temperature with high accuracy.

Conclusions:

• The proposed dual-parameter SPR sensor offers a compact and robust solution for multi-variable monitoring.
• Its high sensitivity and parallel sensing capability make it suitable for applications like quantum device control and cold-chain logistics.
• The novel PCF structure facilitates efficient and independent RI and temperature measurements in complex settings.