IR fiber-optic evanescent wave spectroscopy (FEWS) for sensing applications (Conference Presentation)

We developed crystalline AgClBr fibers of diameters 0.7-0.9mm that are flexible, non-toxic, insoluble in water and highly transparent between 4-15µm. We used these fibers for various sensing applications. Highly sensitive absorption measurements in the mid-IR may be carried out by Fiber-optic Evanescent Wave Spectroscopy (FEWS). A typical FEWS system is based on three mid-IR components: a tunable source, a detector and a AgClBr fiber sensor that is brought in contact with the samples. We used FTIR spectrometers or tunable gas lasers or quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) as mid-IR sources. We used this FEWS system for measurements on gases, liquids and solids. In particular we used it for several biomedical applications. Measurements in vivo: (1) Early detection of skin diseases (e.g. melanoma). (2) Measurements on cells and bacteria. (3) Measurements on cornea. Measurements in vitro: (4) Characterization of urinary and biliary stones. (5) Blood measurements. The FEWS method is simple, inexpensive and does not require sample processing. It would be useful for diagnostic measurements on the outer part of the body of a patient, as well as for endoscopic measurements. It would also useful for measurements on tissue samples removed from the body. In addition we develop Scanning Near-field Infrared Microscope that will be used for spectral imaging with sub-wavelength resolution in the mid-IR. The various AgClBr fiber-optic sensors are expected to be important diagnostic tools at the hand of physicians in the future.