External cavity laser label-free biosensor

Utilizing a tunable photonic crystal resonant reflector as a mirror of an external cavity laser, we demonstrate a new type of label-free optical biosensor that achieves a high quality factor through the process of stimulated emission, while at the same time providing high sensitivity, large dynamic range and simple detection instrumentation. The photonic crystal is fabricated inexpensively from plastic materials, and its resonant wavelength is tuned by adsorption of biomolecules on its surface. Gain for the lasing process is provided by a semiconductor optical amplifier, resulting in a simple detection instrument that operates by normally incident noncontact illumination of the photonic crystal and direct back-reflection into the amplifier. We demonstrate single-mode, mode-hop-free, biomolecule-induced tuning of the continuous-wave laser wavelength. Because the approach incorporates external optical gain that is separate from the transducer, the device represents a significant advance over previous passive optical resonator biosensors and laser-based biosensors.

Name thesis:degree_name

Ph.D.

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Electrical & Computer Engr

Grantor

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2013

Author dc:creator

• Ge, Chun

Contributors dc:contributor

• Cunningham, Brian T.
• Choquette, Kent D.
• Hergenrother, Paul J.
• Eden, James G.

• Laser
• External cavity laser
• Optical biosensor
• photonic crystal

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright by Chun Ge 2013 All Rights Reserved

Language dc:language

en

Handle dc:identifier

http://hdl.handle.net/2142/44440

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:www.ideals.illinois.edu:2142/44440