Large dynamic range SPR measurements in the visible using a ZnSe prism

Large dynamic index measurement range (n = 1 to n = 1.7) using surface plasmon resonance (SPR) shifts is 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 requires 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 deg, 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 to 0.007) per precentage C6H12O6 conc. Given the transmission properties of ZnSe the processes can be readily extended into the mid infrared.