An analytical model based on geometrical optics and multilayer transfer matrix method is applied to determine the sensing properties of tapered optical fiber based SPR sensors incorporating bimetallic (Gold and Silver) layers, particularly when phase interrogation is considered. Phase interrogation is studied as a methodology to attain enhanced sensitivities. The performance of the sensing heads as function of the bimetallic layers and taper parameters is analyzed. It is shown the bimetallic combination is capable to provide larger values of sensitivity compared with the single layer approach. The results derived from this study are guiding the experimental study of these structures.

Date Published: 18 November 2013
PDF: 7 pages
Proc. SPIE 8785, 8th Iberoamerican Optics Meeting and 11th Latin American Meeting on Optics, Lasers, and Applications, 8785FK (18 November 2013); doi: 10.1117/12.2027614

Published in SPIE Proceedings Vol. 8785:
8th Iberoamerican Optics Meeting and 11th Latin American Meeting on Optics, Lasers, and Applications
Manuel Filipe P. C. Martins Costa, Editor(s)