Random laser spectroscopy for nanoscale perturbation sensing

Opt Lett. 2010 Aug 1;35(15):2624-6. doi: 10.1364/OL.35.002624.

Abstract

We report a spectroscopic method using coherent random lasers for a simple, yet nanoscale, sensing approach. Unique spectral properties of coherent random laser emission can be detectably altered when introducing nanoscale perturbations to a simple nanocomposite film that consists of dielectric nanospheres and laser-dye-doped polymer to serve as a transducer. Random lasing action provides a means to amplify subtle perturbations to readily detectable spectral shifts in multiple discrete emission peaks. Owing to several advantages, such as large-area detection, narrow and multiple emission peaks, straightforward detection, and simple fabrication, random laser spectroscopy has the potential for ultrasensitive, yet simple, biosensors in various applications.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Biosensing Techniques*
  • Equipment Design
  • Finite Element Analysis
  • Lasers*
  • Microscopy, Electron, Scanning / methods
  • Nanospheres
  • Nanotechnology
  • Optics and Photonics*
  • Polymers / chemistry*
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Software
  • Transducers

Substances

  • Polymers