Optical sensors are crucial for scientific and technological advancements, from detecting faint signals for medical diagnostics to gravitational waves. A longstanding challenge has been improving their sensitivity to detect weak signals amidst noise.
Researchers have developed a novel method to enhance the sensitivity of conventional optical sensors using exceptional points (EPs). EPs are specific conditions where unique optical phenomena occur. The researchers’ approach overcomes the limitations of previous methods by using an EP control unit separate from the sensor itself. This allows for adjustments to be made solely to the control unit, eliminating the need for complex sensor modifications to achieve ultrahigh sensitivity.
The new platform can significantly improve the sensitivity of conventional optical sensors. This is a major advancement in EP-enhanced sensing, making it more universally applicable. Any phase-sensitive sensor can benefit from this configuration, including those used in environmental detection, health monitoring, and biomedical imaging. By separating the sensing and control functions, the researchers have addressed the stringent physical requirements limiting the adoption of EPs in sensors. Their EP control unit can be used with various conventional sensors, including ring resonators, thermal and magnetic sensors, and biosensors, significantly improving their detection limits.
The researchers achieved a six-fold reduction in the detection limit of a sensor using their EP-enhanced configuration compared to a conventional sensor. They are exploring broader applications, including enhancing magnetic sensing for portable MRI technology. This research will lead to significant improvements in the sensitivity of optical sensors across a wide range of applications.
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