Novel spectral fiber optic sensor based on surface plasmon resonance

A novel fiber optic surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensing device based on spectral interrogation of SPR in a miniature fiber optic sensing element u sing depolarized light is reported. Optimization analysis of the sensor bas ed on the equivalent planar waveguide approach and the mode expansion and p ropagation method is presented. A laboratory prototype of the sensor has be en proved to be able to measure refractive index variations as small as 5 x 10(-7). Suitability of the sensor for biosensing has been demonstrated by detecting IgG via respective monoclonal antibodies immobilized on the SPR s ensor surface. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.