The array of axially aligned air holes and the resultant optical characteristics in silica photonic crystal fibers (PCFs) present an enormous opportunity to develop sensors with detection sensitivity not achievable by conventional optical fiber technology. This NIRT project aims to explore the frontier of hollow- and solid-core PCFs with nanoscale-functionalized air holes for chemical and biological sensing.
PCFs will be fabricated via a modified sol-gel method for optical fibers. Nanoscale surface functionalization will be conducted following two strategies: (1) surface attachment of Ag nanoparticles mediated by self-assembled monolayers for chemical sensing, where surface-enhanced Raman scattering can be exploited and (2) surface binding of biospecific recognition entities for biological sensing. Surface functionalization studies will employ various surface-sensitive analytical tools. Sensing measurements will make use of a range of state-of-the-art laser techniques. Experimental studies will be augmented by computer simulation, taking into account of the effects of surface functionalization, analyte medium, and biospecific interactions on the optical characteristics of PCFs.
This project represents the first known endeavor to integrate PCFs with nanotechnology for potentially robust chemical and biological sensing. It will yield a wealth of fundamental and experimental information in the various task areas. Success of the project will enhance the prospects of nanoscale-functionalized PCF sensors, sensor arrays, and sensor networks for diverse applications such as remote and dynamic environmental monitoring, manufacturing process safety, medical diagnosis, early warning of biological and chemical warfare, and homeland defense.
