Refractometric optical sensors with optoelectronic interrogation

Abstract

Refractometric sensors based on plasmonic resonances can be modified to operate using an interrogation method based on the optoelectronic response of the device. In this contribution we show how the bolometric effect can be used to generate a signal depending on the change of the refractive index of the analyte. The design has been tuned to sense variations in the range of aqueous media. We have also proposed a modification of a perovskite solar cell to sense variations in the index of refraction of air. These changes in the interrogation method have required a modification of the definitions of the sensitivity and Figure of Merit of such types of sensors. The results show a performance that is competitive with other refractometric sensors and allows an operation method that relies on the measurement of electric, or electronic, parameters.