Moving the wavelength detection range in surface plasmon resonance sensors based on tapered optical fibers

Abstract

It is shown how the design possibilities offered by double-layer uniform-waist tapered optical fibers (DLUWTs) permit to move the wavelength detection range to adapt the response of the sensors to varied conditions. In particular, we have obtained very good experimental curves showing that we can achieve plasmon resonances in the C-band of the optical communications, around 1.5 μm, for the range of refractive indices of aqueous media, highly interesting in the biosensors field. Also, we show results for other interesting wavelength region, around 500 nm, where we can take advantage of the absorption peaks of the analytes. Finally, we explore the possibilities of using InN as a dielectric material for the second layer of the deposition. These results contribute to considerably expand the applicability and performance of SPR fiber sensors.