A large dynamic index measurement range (n =1 to n = 1.7) using surface plasmon resonance (SPR) shifts was demonstrated with a ZnSe prism at 632.8 nm, limited by the available high index liquid hosts. In contrast to borosilicate based SPR measurements, where angular limitations restrict solvent use to water and require considerable care dealing with Fresnel reflections, the ZnSe approach allows SPR spectroscopies to be applied to a varied range of solvents. An uncertainty in angular resolution between 1.5° and 6°, depending on the solvent and SPR angle, was estimated. The refractive index change for a given glucose concentration in water was measured to be n = (0.114 ± 0.007) /%[C6H12O6]. Given the transmission properties of ZnSe, the processes can be readily extended into the mid infrared.

This work presents a short review of the current research on the acousto-optic mechanism applied to optical fibers. The role of the piezoelectric element and the acousto-optic modulator in the excitation of flexural and longitudinal acoustic modes in the frequency range up to 1.2 MHz is highlighted. A combination of the finite elements and the transfer matrix methods is used to simulate the interaction of the waves with Bragg and long period gratings. Results show a very good agreement with experimental data. Recent applications such as the writing of gratings under the acoustic excitation and a novel viscometer sensor based on the acousto-optic mechanism are discussed.

Grating writing in structured optical fibers is reviewed. Various laser sources have been used including UV and near IR nanosecond and femtosecond lasers, each enabling different material processing regimes. The issue of scattering is modeled through simulation and compared with experiment. Good agreement has been established.