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Ultrasensitive imaging-based sensor unlocked by differential guided-mode resonance

Author

Listed:
  • Zhenchao Liu

    (Zhejiang University (ZJU)
    Zhejiang University
    Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD))

  • Houxin Fan

    (Zhejiang University (ZJU))

  • Tingbiao Guo

    (Zhejiang University (ZJU))

  • Qin Tan

    (Zhejiang University (ZJU))

  • Zhi Zhang

    (Zhejiang University (ZJU))

  • Yuwei Sun

    (Zhejiang University (ZJU))

  • Julian Evans

    (Zhejiang University (ZJU))

  • Junbo Liang

    (Zhejiang University)

  • Ruili Zhang

    (Zhejiang University)

  • Sailing He

    (Zhejiang University (ZJU)
    Zhejiang University
    Zhejiang University
    KTH Royal Institute of Technology)

Abstract

Imaging-based sensors convert physicochemical parameters of analytes into visible patterns, yet a high sensitivity remains constrained. Here, we introduce the concept of differential guided-mode resonance with thickness modulation at a tens-nanometer scale to greatly enhance the sensitivity, alleviating the sensitivity-dynamic range tradeoff. Experimental results reveal a sensitivity of up to a million-level pixels per refractive index unit (RIU), surpassing existing technologies by nearly three orders of magnitude, with a large dynamic range reconfigured by the incident angle. With the present method, a moderate value (about 100) of the Q factor suffices to make a record high sensitivity and the Figure of Merit (FOM) can reach 104 RIU−1 level. We also demonstrate a portable device, highlighting its potential for practical applications, including 2D distribution sensing. This method unlocks the potential of imaging-based sensors with both record high sensitivity and tremendous dynamic range for accurate medical diagnosis, biochemical analysis, dynamic pollution monitoring, etc.

Suggested Citation

  • Zhenchao Liu & Houxin Fan & Tingbiao Guo & Qin Tan & Zhi Zhang & Yuwei Sun & Julian Evans & Junbo Liang & Ruili Zhang & Sailing He, 2025. "Ultrasensitive imaging-based sensor unlocked by differential guided-mode resonance," Nature Communications, Nature, vol. 16(1), pages 1-10, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natcom:v:16:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1038_s41467-025-60947-3
    DOI: 10.1038/s41467-025-60947-3
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