Nano slot-antenna array refractive index sensors: Approaching the conventional theoretical limit of the figure of merit

Michal Eitan, Yuval Yifat, Zeev Iluz, Amir Boag, Yael Hanein, Jacob Scheuer

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contributionpeer-review

Abstract

We demonstrate a refractive index (RI) detection technique based on an array of nanometer scale slot-antennas milled in a thin gold layer using a single lithographic step. Our experimental Figures of merit (FOMs) of 140-210 in the telecom wavelength range approach the fundamental limit for standard propagating SPR sensors (∼250). The underlying mechanism enabling such high FOMs is the combination of a narrowband resonance of the slot-antennas with degeneracy breaking of Woods anomaly under slightly non-perpendicular illumination. In addition, we study the sensitivity of the thickness of the analyte layer. This concept can be easily tuned to any desired wavelength and RI range by modifying the slot dimensions and the array spacing, thus rendering it highly attractive for numerous sensing applications.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationOptical Sensors 2015
EditorsFrancesco Baldini, Robert A. Lieberman, Jiri Homola
PublisherSPIE
ISBN (Electronic)9781628416275
DOIs
StatePublished - 2015
EventOptical Sensors 2015 - Prague, Czech Republic
Duration: 13 Apr 201516 Apr 2015

Publication series

NameProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
Volume9506
ISSN (Print)0277-786X
ISSN (Electronic)1996-756X

Conference

ConferenceOptical Sensors 2015
Country/TerritoryCzech Republic
CityPrague
Period13/04/1516/04/15

Keywords

  • Figurer of merit (FOM)
  • Wood's Anomaly
  • nano-antennas
  • refractive index sensing
  • surface plasmon resonance

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