A Sophisticated Terahertz Photonic Crystal Fiber Sensor Design for Highly Accurate Detection of Kerosene Mixtures

Abstract

A Photonic Crystal Fiber sensor has been proposed, featuring an octagonal cladding and a hollow core, designed specifically for detecting kerosene adulteration. The sensor's performance is evaluated through numerical simulations across frequencies ranging from 1.0 to 3 THz. Kerosene is established into the innermost hole of the structure, and the strut size is adjusted to analyze the sensor's functionality at THz frequencies. At 2.2 THz, the sensor demonstrated impressive results, with a relative sensitivity of around 96.80%, an effective mode loss (EML) of 0.00667 cm⁻¹, and a very low confinement loss of ≈6.78 × 10^⁻8 dB m⁻¹. This high sensitivity and precision make the proposed detector a promising tool for identifying kerosene adulteration, ensuring consumers receive high-quality petroleum products. Additionally, modern techniques like extrusion and 3D printing can be employed to manufacture the photonic crystal fiber indicator.