Selective cross-insensitive dual-channel PCF-SPR sensor based on high-order modes for simultaneous temperature and refractive index sensing in cancer cell detection

We propose a novel selective cross-insensitive dual-channel surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensor based on a dual-D-type dual-core photonic crystal fiber (PCF), designed for simultaneous refractive index (RI) and temperature sensing, with specific application to cancer cell analysis. The sensor comprises two independently functioning channels: one dedicated to RI measurement and another configured to capture both RI and temperature variations. The use of higher-order modes, rather than the fundamental mode, enhances the sensor's sensitivity. Numerical simulations demonstrate that, within the visible wavelength range, the sensor achieves a maximum RI sensitivity of 8000 nm/RIU for refractive indices between 1.32 and 1.41 and a maximum temperature sensitivity of 6 nm/°C across a temperature range from −40 °C to 100 °C. Operating in the visible spectrum, this sensor shows significant potential for applications in cancer cell detection, food safety, industrial processes, environmental monitoring, and biological and chemical sensing.