New idea for a D-type optical fiber sensor based on Kretschmann’s configuration

Abstract

A new idea for a D-type optical fiber sensor based on Kretschmann's configuration is proposed. The sensing device is a D-type single mode fiber with a half-polished core, and a thin film layer of gold deposited on the flat side of the sensor. In order to achieve the best sensitivity of the D-type optical fiber sensor, we must choose suitable parameters, e.g., the thickness of the thin film layer of gold and the length of the sensor. We found that the experimental results are in good correspondence with theoretical results. The sensor's sensitivity can reach 2 × 10 -4 refractive index unit (RIU) at least. Because the sensor has some merits, e.g., small size, less costly, smaller sample volume, easy measurement, and suitability for in vivo testing, etc., the D-type optical fiber sensor is valuable for chemical, biological, and biochemical sensing. © 2005 Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers.