Age-dependence of the average and equivalent refractive indices of the crystalline lens

PubMed Central

Charman, W. Neil; Atchison, David A.

2013-01-01

Lens average and equivalent refractive indices are required for purposes such as lens thickness estimation and optical modeling. We modeled the refractive index gradient as a power function of the normalized distance from lens center. Average index along the lens axis was estimated by integration. Equivalent index was estimated by raytracing through a model eye to establish ocular refraction, and then backward raytracing to determine the constant refractive index yielding the same refraction. Assuming center and edge indices remained constant with age, at 1.415 and 1.37 respectively, average axial refractive index increased (1.408 to 1.411) and equivalent index decreased (1.425 to 1.420) with age increase from 20 to 70 years. These values agree well with experimental estimates based on different techniques, although the latter show considerable scatter. The simple model of index gradient gives reasonable estimates of average and equivalent lens indices, although refinements in modeling and measurements are required. PMID:24466474

On the Immersion Liquid Evaporation Method Based on the Dynamic Sweep of Magnitude of the Refractive Index of a Binary Liquid Mixture: A Case Study on Determining Mineral Particle Light Dispersion.

PubMed

Niskanen, Ilpo; Räty, Jukka; Peiponen, Kai-Erik

2017-07-01

This is a feasibility study of a modified immersion liquid technique for determining the refractive index of micro-sized particles. The practical challenge of the traditional liquid immersion method is to find or produce a suitable host liquid whose refractive index equals that of a solid particle. Usually, the immersion liquid method uses a set of immersion liquids with different refractive indices or continuously mixes two liquids with different refractive indices, e.g., using a pumping system. Here, the phenomenon of liquid evaporation has been utilized in defining the time-dependent refractive index variation of the host liquid. From the spectral transmittance data measured during the evaporation process, the refractive index of a solid particle in the host liquid can be determined as a function of the wavelength. The method was tested using calcium fluoride (CaF 2 ) particles with an immersion liquid mixed from diethyl ether and diffusion pump fluid. The dispersion data obtained were consistent with the literature values thus indicating the proper functioning of the proposed procedure.

Light-driven liquid microlenses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Angelini, A.; Pirani, F.; Frascella, F.; Ricciardi, S.; Descrovi, E.

2017-02-01

We propose a liquid polymeric compound based on photo-responsive azo-polymers to be used as light-activated optical element with tunable and reversible functionalities. The interaction of a laser beam locally modifies the liquid density thus producing a refractive index gradient. The laser induced refractive index profiles are observed along the optical axis of the microscope to evaluate the total phase shift induced and along the orthogonal direction to provide the axial distribution of the refractive index variation. The focusing and imaging properties of the liquid lenses as functions of the light intensity are illustrated.

Refractive Index Imaging of Cells with Variable-Angle Near-Total Internal Reflection (TIR) Microscopy.

PubMed

Bohannon, Kevin P; Holz, Ronald W; Axelrod, Daniel

2017-10-01

The refractive index in the interior of single cells affects the evanescent field depth in quantitative studies using total internal reflection (TIR) fluorescence, but often that index is not well known. We here present method to measure and spatially map the absolute index of refraction in a microscopic sample, by imaging a collimated light beam reflected from the substrate/buffer/cell interference at variable angles of incidence. Above the TIR critical angle (which is a strong function of refractive index), the reflection is 100%, but in the immediate sub-critical angle zone, the reflection intensity is a very strong ascending function of incidence angle. By analyzing the angular position of that edge at each location in the field of view, the local refractive index can be estimated. In addition, by analyzing the steepness of the edge, the distance-to-substrate can be determined. We apply the technique to liquid calibration samples, silica beads, cultured Chinese hamster ovary cells, and primary culture chromaffin cells. The optical technique suffers from decremented lateral resolution, scattering, and interference artifacts. However, it still provides reasonable results for both refractive index (~1.38) and for distance-to-substrate (~150 nm) for the cells, as well as a lateral resolution to about 1 µm.

Assessment of refractive index of pigments by Gaussian fitting of light backscattering data in context of the liquid immersion method.

PubMed

Niskanen, Ilpo; Peiponen, Kai-Erik; Räty, Jukka

2010-05-01

Using a multifunction spectrophotometer, the refractive index of a pigment can be estimated by measuring the backscattering of light from the pigment in immersion liquids having slightly different refractive indices. A simple theoretical Gaussian function model related to the optical path distribution is introduced that makes it possible to describe quantitatively the backscattering signal from transparent pigments using a set of only a few immersion liquids. With the aid of the data fitting by a Gaussian function, the measurement time of the refractive index of the pigment can be reduced. The backscattering measurement technique is suggested to be useful in industrial measurement environments of pigments.

Synthesis and Characterization of Functional Mesostructures Using Colloidal Crystal Templating

DTIC Science & Technology

2004-01-01

fluorescent probes in aqueous polymer solutions . Khoury and co-workers measured the diffusion coefficient of several fluorescein-labeled proteins in...diffraction naq refractive index of the aqueous solution phase xvii ni refractive index of component i ngel refractive index of the hydrogel...phase Tg glass transition temperature α angle of diffraction φaq volume fraction of the aqueous solution phase φi volume fraction of

Optical diffusion property of chicken tissue

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schneider, Patricia S.; Flamholz, Alex; Wong, Peter K.; Lieberman, David H.; Cheung, Tak D.; Itoka, Harriet; Minott, Troy; Quizhpi, Janie; Rodriguez, Jacquelin

2004-11-01

Chicken tissue acts as a turbid medium in optical wavelength. Optical characterization data of fresh chicken dark and white meat were studied using the theory of light diffusion. The gaussian-like transmission profile was used to determine the transport mean free path and absorption. The refractive index, a fundamental parameter, was extracted via transmission correlation function analysis without using index-matching fluid. The variation in refractive index also produced various small shifts in the oscillatory feature of the intensity spatial correlation function at distance shorter than the transport mean free path. The optical system was calibrated with porous silicate slabs containing different water contents and also with a solid alumina slab. The result suggested that the selective scattering/absorption of myoglobin and mitochondria in the dark tissues is consistent with the transmission data. The refractive index was similar for dark and white tissues at the He-Ne wavelength and suggested that the index could serve as a marker for quality control. Application to chicken lunchmeat samples revealed that higher protein and lower carbohydrate would shift the correlation toward smaller distance. The pure fat refractive index was different from that of the meat tissue. Application of refractive index as a fat marker is also discussed

Methods for prediction of refractive index in glasses for the infrared

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McCloy, John S.

2011-06-01

It is often useful to obtain custom glasses that meet particular requirements of refractive index and dispersion for highend optical design and applications. In the case of infrared glasses, limited experimental data are available due to difficulties in processing of these glasses and also measuring refractive indices accurately. This paper proposes methods to estimate refractive index and dispersion as a function of composition for selected infrared-transmitting glasses. Methods for refractive index determination are reviewed and evaluated, including Gladstone-Dale, Wemple- DiDomenico single oscillator, Optical basicity, and Lorentz-Lorenz total polarizability. Various estimates for a set of PbO-Bi2O3-Ga2O3 (heavy metal oxide) and As-S (chalcogenide) glasses will be compared with measured values of index and dispersion.

Methods for Prediction of Refractive Index in Glasses for the Infrared

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

McCloy, John S.

It is often useful to obtain custom glasses that meet particular requirements of refractive index and dispersion for high-end optical design and applications. In the case of infrared glasses, limited experimental data are available due to difficulties in processing of these glasses and also measuring refractive indices accurately. This paper proposes methods to estimate refractive index and dispersion as a function of composition for selected infrared-transmitting glasses. Methods for refractive index determination are reviewed and evaluated, including Gladstone-Dale, Wemple-DiDomenico single oscillator, Optical basicity, and Lorentz-Lorenz total polarizability. Various estimates for a set of PbO-Bi2O3-Ga2O3 (heavy metal oxide) and As-S (chalcogenide)more » glasses will be compared with measured values of index and dispersion.« less

Refractive index of liquid mixtures: theory and experiment.

PubMed

Reis, João Carlos R; Lampreia, Isabel M S; Santos, Angela F S; Moita, Maria Luísa C J; Douhéret, Gérard

2010-12-03

An innovative approach is presented to interpret the refractive index of binary liquid mixtures. The concept of refractive index "before mixing" is introduced and shown to be given by the volume-fraction mixing rule of the pure-component refractive indices (Arago-Biot formula). The refractive index of thermodynamically ideal liquid mixtures is demonstrated to be given by the volume-fraction mixing rule of the pure-component squared refractive indices (Newton formula). This theoretical formulation entails a positive change of refractive index upon ideal mixing, which is interpreted in terms of dissimilar London dispersion forces centred in the dissimilar molecules making up the mixture. For real liquid mixtures, the refractive index of mixing and the excess refractive index are introduced in a thermodynamic manner. Examples of mixtures are cited for which excess refractive indices and excess molar volumes show all of the four possible sign combinations, a fact that jeopardises the finding of a general equation linking these two excess properties. Refractive indices of 69 mixtures of water with the amphiphile (R,S)-1-propoxypropan-2-ol are reported at five temperatures in the range 283-303 K. The ideal and real refractive properties of this binary system are discussed. Pear-shaped plots of excess refractive indices against excess molar volumes show that extreme positive values of excess refractive index occur at a substantially lower mole fraction of the amphiphile than extreme negative values of excess molar volume. Analysis of these plots provides insights into the mixing schemes that occur in different composition segments. A nearly linear variation is found when Balankina's ratios between excess and ideal values of refractive indices are plotted against ratios between excess and ideal values of molar volumes. It is concluded that, when coupled with volumetric properties, the new thermodynamic functions defined for the analysis of refractive indices of liquid mixtures give important complementary information on the mixing process over the whole composition range.

[Modeling and Simulation of Spectral Polarimetric BRDF].

PubMed

Ling, Jin-jiang; Li, Gang; Zhang, Ren-bin; Tang, Qian; Ye, Qiu

2016-01-01

Under the conditions of the polarized light, The reflective surface of the object is affected by many factors, refractive index, surface roughness, and so the angle of incidence. For the rough surface in the different wavelengths of light exhibit different reflection characteristics of polarization, a spectral polarimetric BRDF based on Kirchhof theory is proposee. The spectral model of complex refraction index is combined with refraction index and extinction coefficient spectral model which were got by using the known complex refraction index at different value. Then get the spectral model of surface roughness derived from the classical surface roughness measuring method combined with the Fresnel reflection function. Take the spectral model of refraction index and roughness into the BRDF model, then the spectral polarimetirc BRDF model is proposed. Compare the simulation results of the refractive index varies with wavelength, roughness is constant, the refraction index and roughness both vary with wavelength and origin model with other papers, it shows that, the spectral polarimetric BRDF model can show the polarization characteristics of the surface accurately, and can provide a reliable basis for the application of polarization remote sensing, and other aspects of the classification of substances.

Rapid assessment of mid-infrared refractive index anisotropy using a prism coupler: chemical vapor deposited ZnS

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Qiao, Hong; Lipschultz, Kristen A.; Anheier, Norman C.

2012-04-01

A state-of-the-art mid-infrared prism coupler was used to study the refractive index properties of forward-looking-infrared (FLIR) grade zinc sulfide samples prepared with unique planar grain orientations and locations with respect to the CVD growth axis. This study was motivated by prior photoluminescence and x-ray diffraction measurements that suggested refractive index may vary according to grain orientation. Measurements were conducted to provide optical dispersion and thermal index (dn/dT) data at discrete laser wavelengths between 0.633 and 10.591 {mu}m at two temperature set points (30 C and 90 C). Refractive index measurements between samples exhibited an average standard deviation comparable to themore » uncertainty of the prism coupler measurement (0.0004 refractive index units), suggesting that the variation in refractive index as a function of planar grain orientation and CVD deposition time is negligible, and should have no impact on subsequent optical designs. Measured dispersion data at mid-infrared wavelengths was found to agree well with prior published measurements.« less

The relationship between the retinal image quality and the refractive index of defects arising in IOL: numerical analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Geniusz, Malwina

2017-09-01

The best treatment for cataract patients, which allows to restore clear vision is implanting an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). The image quality of the lens has a significant impact on the quality of patient's vision. After a long exposure the implant to aqueous environment some defects appear in the artificial lenses. The defects generated in the IOL have different refractive indices. For example, glistening phenomenon is based on light scattering on the oval microvacuoles filled with an aqueous humor which refractive index value is about 1.34. Calcium deposits are another example of lens defects and they can be characterized by the refractive index 1.63. In the presented studies it was calculated how the difference between the refractive indices of the defect and the refractive index of the lens material affects the quality of image. The OpticStudio Professional program (from Radiant Zemax, LLC) was used for the construction of the numerical model of the eye with IOL and to calculate the characteristics of the retinal image. Retinal image quality was described in such characteristics as Point Spread Function (PSF) and the Optical Transfer Function with amplitude and phase. The results show a strong correlation between the refractive indices difference and retinal image quality.

Unidirectional transmission using array of zero-refractive-index metamaterials

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Fu, Yangyang; Xu, Lin; Hong Hang, Zhi

2014-05-12

In this Letter, we find that high efficient unidirectional transmission occurs for an array of prisms made of zero-refractive-index metamaterials. As a specific demonstration, we further design the device using Dirac-cone-like photonic crystals. The device can function for a broadband of spectrum. Numerical simulations are performed to verify the one-way wave functionality.

Spatial variation of stratospheric aerosol acidity and model refractive index - Implications of recent results

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Russell, P. B.; Hamill, P.

1984-01-01

Recent experimental results indicate that little or no solid ammonium sulfate is present in background stratospheric aerosols. Other results allow straightforward calculation of sulfuric acid/water droplet properties (acidity, specific gravity, refractive index) as functions of stratospheric temperature and humidity. These results are combined with a variety of latitudinal and seasonal temperature and humidity profiles to obtain corresponding profiles of droplet properties. These profiles are used to update a previous model of stratospheric aerosol refractive index. The new model retains the simplifying approximation of vertically constant refractive index in the inner stratosphere, but has sulfuric acid/water refractive index values that significantly exceed the previously used room temperature values. Mean conversion ratios (e.g., extinction-to-number, backscatter-to-volume) obtained using Mie scattering calculations with the new refractive indices are very similar to those obtained for the old indices, because the effects of deleting ammonium sulfate and increasing acid indices tend to cancel each other.

Index of Refraction Measurements and Window Corrections for PMMA under Shock Compression

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chapman, David; Eakins, Daniel; Williamson, David; Proud, William

2011-06-01

Symmetric plate impact experiments were performed to investigate the change in the refractive index of PMMA under shock loading. Flyer and target geometries allowed the measurement of shock velocity, particle velocity, and refractive index in the shocked state, using the simultaneous application of VISAR (532 nm) and Het-V (1550 nm). The change in refractive index of PMMA as a function of density is generally considered to be well described by the Gladstone-Dale relationship, meaning that the ``apparent'' velocity measured by a laser velocity interferometer is the ``true'' velocity, and hence there is no window correction. The results presented characterise the accuracy of this assumption at peak stresses up to 2 GPa.

A naked eye refractive index sensor with a visible multiple peak metamaterial absorber.

PubMed

Ma, Heli; Song, Kun; Zhou, Liang; Zhao, Xiaopeng

2015-03-26

We report a naked eye refractive index sensor with a visible metamaterial absorber. The visible metamaterial absorber consisting of a silver dendritic/dielectric/metal structure shows multiple absorption peaks. By incorporating a gain material (rhodamine B) into the dielectric layer, the maximal magnitude of the absorption peak can be improved by about 30%. As the metamaterial absorber is sensitive to the refractive index of glucose solutions, it can function as a sensor that quickly responds to variations of the refractive index of the liquid. Meanwhile, since the response is presented via color changes, it can be clearly observed by the naked eyes. Further experiments have confirmed that the sensor can be used repeatedly.

Group refractive index quantification using a Fourier domain short coherence Sagnac interferometer.

PubMed

Montonen, Risto; Kassamakov, Ivan; Lehmann, Peter; Österberg, Kenneth; Hæggström, Edward

2018-02-15

The group refractive index is important in length calibration of Fourier domain interferometers by transparent transfer standards. We demonstrate accurate group refractive index quantification using a Fourier domain short coherence Sagnac interferometer. Because of a justified linear length calibration function, the calibration constants cancel out in the evaluation of the group refractive index, which is then obtained accurately from two uncalibrated lengths. Measurements of two standard thickness coverslips revealed group indices of 1.5426±0.0042 and 1.5434±0.0046, with accuracies quoted at the 95% confidence level. This agreed with the dispersion data of the coverslip manufacturer and therefore validates our method. Our method provides a sample specific and accurate group refractive index quantification using the same Fourier domain interferometer that is to be calibrated for the length. This reduces significantly the requirements of the calibration transfer standard.

Investigation of a pressure-dependent refractive index of germanium film with an optical fiber film sensor.

PubMed

Yuan, Dongxu; Gao, Hongyun; Chen, Hao; Li, Min

2018-02-01

The refractive index of Ge is found in decline with applied pressure at a specific wavelength in the absorption region below 1900 nm, where the absorption coefficient rises dramatically with decreased wavelength. In this paper, we use a Ge-coated fiber optic probe to demonstrate quantitatively that the downward trend in the refractive index to increasing pressure matches the theoretically simulated optical properties of Ge with a measurement error of 1.03×10 -3 in the refractive index, which is further calculated within the framework of density functional theory with local density approximation. For the first time, to the best of our knowledge, both theoretical and experimental results prove that the refractive index reduces linearly with a gradient of -3.30×10 -4 /MPa as the pressure increases from 0 to 20 MPa.

Effect of Refractive Index of Substrate on Fabrication and Optical Properties of Hybrid Au-Ag Triangular Nanoparticle Arrays

PubMed Central

Liu, Jing; Chen, Yushan; Cai, Haoyuan; Chen, Xiaoyi; Li, Changwei; Yang, Cheng-Fu

2015-01-01

In this study, the nanosphere lithography (NSL) method was used to fabricate hybrid Au-Ag triangular periodic nanoparticle arrays. The Au-Ag triangular periodic arrays were grown on different substrates, and the effect of the refractive index of substrates on fabrication and optical properties was systematically investigated. At first, the optical spectrum was simulated by the discrete dipole approximation (DDA) numerical method as a function of refractive indexes of substrates and mediums. Simulation results showed that as the substrates had the refractive indexes of 1.43 (quartz) and 1.68 (SF5 glass), the nanoparticle arrays would have better refractive index sensitivity (RIS) and figure of merit (FOM). Simulation results also showed that the peak wavelength of the extinction spectra had a red shift when the medium’s refractive index n increased. The experimental results also demonstrated that when refractive indexes of substrates were 1.43 and 1.68, the nanoparticle arrays and substrate had better adhesive ability. Meanwhile, we found the nanoparticles formed a large-scale monolayer array with the hexagonally close-packed structure. Finally, the hybrid Au-Ag triangular nanoparticle arrays were fabricated on quartz and SF5 glass substrates and their experiment extinction spectra were compared with the simulated results.

Pressure sensing in high-refractive-index liquids using long-period gratings nanocoated with silicon nitride.

PubMed

Smietana, Mateusz; Bock, Wojtek J; Mikulic, Predrag; Chen, Jiahua

2010-01-01

The paper presents a novel pressure sensor based on a silicon nitride (SiNx) nanocoated long-period grating (LPG). The high-temperature, radio-frequency plasma-enhanced chemical-vapor-deposited (RF PECVD) SiNx nanocoating was applied to tune the sensitivity of the LPG to the external refractive index. The technique allows for deposition of good quality, hard and wear-resistant nanofilms as required for optical sensors. Thanks to the SiNx nanocoating it is possible to overcome a limitation of working in the external-refractive-index range, which for a bare fiber cannot be close to that of the cladding. The nanocoated LPG-based sensing structure we developed is functional in high-refractive-index liquids (nD>1.46) such as oil or gasoline, with pressure sensitivity as high as when water is used as a working liquid. The nanocoating developed for this experiment not only has the highest refractive index ever achieved in LPGs (n>2.2 at λ=1,550 nm), but is also the thinnest (<100 nm) able to tune the external-refractive-index sensitivity of the gratings. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time a nanocoating has been applied on LPGs that is able to simultaneously tune the refractive-index sensitivity and to enable measurements of other parameters.

High Dynamic Range (Δn) Two-Stage Photopolymers via Enhanced Solubility of a High Refractive Index Acrylate Writing Monomer.

PubMed

Alim, Marvin D; Glugla, David J; Mavila, Sudheendran; Wang, Chen; Nystrom, Philip D; Sullivan, Amy C; McLeod, Robert R; Bowman, Christopher N

2018-01-10

Holographic photopolymers capable of high refractive index modulation (Δn) on the order of 10 -2 are integral for the fabrication of functional holographic optical elements that are useful in a myriad of optical applications. In particular, to address the deficiency of suitable high refractive index writing monomers for use in two-stage holographic formulations, here we report a novel high refractive index writing monomer, 1,3-bis(phenylthio)-2-propyl acrylate (BPTPA), simultaneously possessing enhanced solubility in a low refractive index (n = 1.47) urethane matrix. When examined in comparison to a widely used high refractive index monomer, 2,4,6-tribromophenyl acrylate, BPTPA exhibited superior solubility in a stage 1 urethane matrix of approximately 50% with a 20% higher refractive index increase per unit amount of the writing monomer for stage 2 polymerizations. Formulations with 60 wt % loading of BPTPA exhibit a peak-to-mean holographic Δn ≈ 0.029 without obvious deficiencies in transparency, color, or scatter. To the best of our knowledge, this value is the highest reported in the peer-reviewed literature for a transmission hologram. The capabilities and versatility of BPTPA-based formulations are demonstrated at varying length scales via demonstrative refractive index gradient structure examples including direct laser write, projection mask lithography of a 1″ diameter Fresnel lens, and ∼100% diffraction efficiency volume transmission holograms with a 1 μm fringe spacing in 11 μm thick samples.

Plasmonic Waveguide Coupled Ring Cavity for a Non-Resonant Type Refractive Index Sensor.

PubMed

Kwon, Soon-Hong

2017-11-03

Sensitive refractive index sensors with small footprints have been studied to allow the integration of a large number of sensors into a tiny chip for bio/chemical applications. In particular, resonant-type index sensors based on various micro/nanocavities, which use a resonant wavelength dependence on the refractive index of the analyte, have been developed. However, the spectral linewidth of the resonance, which becomes the resolution limit, is considerably large in plasmonic cavities due to the large absorption loss of metals. Therefore, there is demand for a new type of plasmonic refractive index sensor that is not limited by the linewidth of the cavity. We propose a new type of plasmonic index sensors consisting of a channel waveguide and a ring cavity. Two emissions from the ring cavity in both directions of the waveguide couple with a reflection phase difference depending on the length of a closed right arm with a reflecting boundary. Therefore, the output power dramatically and sensitively changes as a function of the refractive index of the analyte filling the waveguide.

Plasmonic Waveguide Coupled Ring Cavity for a Non-Resonant Type Refractive Index Sensor

PubMed Central

Kwon, Soon-Hong

2017-01-01

Sensitive refractive index sensors with small footprints have been studied to allow the integration of a large number of sensors into a tiny chip for bio/chemical applications. In particular, resonant-type index sensors based on various micro/nanocavities, which use a resonant wavelength dependence on the refractive index of the analyte, have been developed. However, the spectral linewidth of the resonance, which becomes the resolution limit, is considerably large in plasmonic cavities due to the large absorption loss of metals. Therefore, there is demand for a new type of plasmonic refractive index sensor that is not limited by the linewidth of the cavity. We propose a new type of plasmonic index sensors consisting of a channel waveguide and a ring cavity. Two emissions from the ring cavity in both directions of the waveguide couple with a reflection phase difference depending on the length of a closed right arm with a reflecting boundary. Therefore, the output power dramatically and sensitively changes as a function of the refractive index of the analyte filling the waveguide. PMID:29099740

Surface plasmon resonance optical cavity enhanced refractive index sensing.

PubMed

Giorgini, A; Avino, S; Malara, P; Gagliardi, G; Casalino, M; Coppola, G; Iodice, M; Adam, P; Chadt, K; Homola, J; De Natale, P

2013-06-01

We report on a method for surface plasmon resonance (SPR) refractive index sensing based on direct time-domain measurements. An optical resonator is built around an SPR sensor, and its photon lifetime is measured as a function of loss induced by refractive index variations. The method does not rely on any spectroscopic analysis or direct intensity measurement. Time-domain measurements are practically immune to light intensity fluctuations and thus lead to high resolution. A proof of concept experiment is carried out in which a sensor response to liquid samples of different refractive indices is measured. A refractive index resolution of the current system, extrapolated from the reproducibility of cavity-decay time determinations over 133 s, is found to be about 10(-5) RIU. The possibility of long-term averaging suggests that measurements with a resolution better than 10(-7) RIU/√Hz are within reach.

Modeling of particle radiative properties in coal combustion depending on burnout

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gronarz, Tim; Habermehl, Martin; Kneer, Reinhold

2017-04-01

In the present study, absorption and scattering efficiencies as well as the scattering phase function of a cloud of coal particles are described as function of the particle combustion progress. Mie theory for coated particles is applied as mathematical model. The scattering and absorption properties are determined by several parameters: size distribution, spectral distribution of incident radiation and spectral index of refraction of the particles. A study to determine the influence of each parameter is performed, finding that the largest effect is due to the refractive index, followed by the effect of size distribution. The influence of the incident radiation profile is negligible. As a part of this study, the possibility of applying a constant index of refraction is investigated. Finally, scattering and absorption efficiencies as well as the phase function are presented as a function of burnout with the presented model and the results are discussed.

Predicting of the refractive index of haemoglobin using the Hybrid GA-SVR approach.

PubMed

Oyehan, Tajudeen A; Alade, Ibrahim O; Bagudu, Aliyu; Sulaiman, Kazeem O; Olatunji, Sunday O; Saleh, Tawfik A

2018-04-30

The optical properties of blood play crucial roles in medical diagnostics and treatment, and in the design of new medical devices. Haemoglobin is a vital constituent of the blood whose optical properties affect all of the optical properties of human blood. The refractive index of haemoglobin has been reported to strongly depend on its concentration which is a function of the physiology of biological cells. This makes the refractive index of haemoglobin an essential non-invasive bio-marker of diseases. Unfortunately, the complexity of blood tissue makes it challenging to experimentally measure the refractive index of haemoglobin. While a few studies have reported on the refractive index of haemoglobin, there is no solid consensus with the data obtained due to different measuring instruments and the conditions of the experiments. Moreover, obtaining the refractive index via an experimental approach is quite laborious. In this work, an accurate, fast and relatively convenient strategy to estimate the refractive index of haemoglobin is reported. Thus, the GA-SVR model is presented for the prediction of the refractive index of haemoglobin using wavelength, temperature, and the concentration of haemoglobin as descriptors. The model developed is characterised by an excellent accuracy and very low error estimates. The correlation coefficients obtained in these studies are 99.94% and 99.91% for the training and testing results, respectively. In addition, the result shows an almost perfect match with the experimental data and also demonstrates significant improvement over a recent mathematical model available in the literature. The GA-SVR model predictions also give insights into the influence of concentration, wavelength, and temperature on the RI measurement values. The model outcome can be used not only to accurately estimate the refractive index of haemoglobin but also could provide a reliable common ground to benchmark the experimental refractive index results. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Refractive index dependence of Papilio Ulysses butterfly wings reflectance spectra

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Isnaeni, Muslimin, Ahmad Novi; Birowosuto, Muhammad Danang

2016-02-01

We have observed and utilized butterfly wings of Papilio Ulysses for refractive index sensor. We noticed this butterfly wings have photonic crystal structure, which causes blue color appearance on the wings. The photonic crystal structure, which consists of cuticle and air void, is approximated as one dimensional photonic crystal structure. This photonic crystal structure opens potential to several optical devices application, such as refractive index sensor. We have utilized small piece of Papilio Ulysses butterfly wings to characterize refractive index of several liquid base on reflectance spectrum of butterfly wings in the presence of sample liquid. For comparison, we simulated reflectance spectrum of one dimensional photonic crystal structure having material parameter based on real structure of butterfly wings. We found that reflectance spectrum peaks shifted as refractive index of sample changes. Although there is a slight difference in reflectance spectrum peaks between measured spectrum and calculated spectrum, the trend of reflectance spectrum peaks as function of sample's refractive index is the similar. We assume that during the measurement, the air void that filled by sample liquid is expanded due to liquid pressure. This change of void shape causes non-similarity between measured spectrum and calculated spectrum.

Photogeneration of refractive-index patterns in doped polyimide films.

PubMed

Chakravorty, K K

1993-05-01

A photosensitive benzophenone tetracarboxylic dianhyride-alkylated diamine polyimide formulation has been evaluated for application in an optical interconnection area. The refractive-index patterns in this material were optically recorded by UV-assisted photodoping of sensitizers. The polyimide films were selectively doped with benzoin-type photosensitizers such as benzildimethylketal and benzoin ethyl ether, which cause a decrease in the refractive index. High-dose UV irradiation that causes cross linking of the polyimide chains was also employed for augmenting the refractive-index difference to 0.017 between the doped and undoped regions. Refractive-index variations and lightguiding properties were investigated as a function of doping concentrations and other processing conditions. The author utilized this technique for the fabrication of embedded polyimide channel waveguides. The two photosensitizers have different effects on the waveguiding characteristics of the polyimide films. Losses for benzoin ethyl ether remained low whereas doping with benzildimethylketal caused significant increase in the waveguiding loss at high doping concentrations. Near-field imaging of the output from such waveguides shows good confinement of 815-nm light.

Photogeneration of refractive-index patterns in doped polyimide films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chakravorty, K. K.

1993-05-01

A photosensitive benzophenone tetracarboxylic dianhyride-alkylated diamine polyimide formulation has been evaluated for application in an optical interconnection area. The refractive-index patterns in this material were optically recorded by UV-assisted photodoping of sensitizers. The polyimide films were selectively doped with benzoin-type photosensitizers such as benzildimethylketal and benzoin ethyl ether, which cause a decrease in the refractive index. High-dose UV irradiation that causes cross linking of the polyimide chains was also employed for augmenting the refractive-index difference to 0.017 between the doped and undoped regions. Refractive-index variations and lightguiding properties were investigated as a function of doping concentrations and other processing conditions. The author utilized this technique for the fabrication of embedded polyimide channel waveguides. The two photosensitizers have different effects on the waveguiding characteristics of the polyimide films. Losses for benzoin ethyl ether remained low whereas doping with benzildimethylketal caused significant increase in the waveguiding loss at high doping concentrations. Near-field imaging of the output from such waveguides shows good confinement of 815-nm light.

Experimental determination of refractive index of condensed reflectin in squid iridocytes.

PubMed

Ghoshal, Amitabh; DeMartini, Daniel G; Eck, Elizabeth; Morse, Daniel E

2014-06-06

Loliginid squid dynamically tune the structural iridescence of cells in their skin for active camouflage and communication. Bragg reflectors in these cells consist of membrane-bound lamellae periodically alternating with low refractive index extracellular spaces; neuronal signalling induces condensation of the reflectin proteins that fill the lamellae, consequently triggering the expulsion of water. This causes an increase in refractive index within the lamellae, activating reflectance, with the change in lamellar thickness and spacing progressively shifting the wavelength of reflected light. We used micro-spectrophotometry to measure the functionally relevant refractive index of the high-index lamellae of the Bragg reflectors containing the condensed reflectins in chemically fixed dermal iridocytes of the squid, Doryteuthis opalescens. Our high-magnification imaging spectrometer allowed us to obtain normalized spectra of optically distinct sections of the individual, subcellular, multi-layer Bragg stacks. Replacement of the extracellular fluid with liquids of increasing refractive index allowed us to measure the reflectivity of the Bragg stacks as it decreased progressively to 0 when the refractive index of the extracellular medium exactly matched that of the reflectin-filled lamellae, thus allowing us to directly measure the refractive index of the reflectin-filled lamellae as ncondensed lamellae ≈ 1.44. The measured value of the physiologically relevant ncondensed lamellae from these bright iridocytes falls within the range of values that we recently determined by an independent optical method and is significantly lower than values previously reported for dehydrated and air-dried reflectin films. We propose that this directly measured value for the refractive index of the squid's Bragg lamellae containing the condensed reflectins is most appropriate for calculations of reflectivity in similar reflectin-based high-index layers in other molluscs.

Experimental determination of refractive index of condensed reflectin in squid iridocytes

PubMed Central

Ghoshal, Amitabh; DeMartini, Daniel G.; Eck, Elizabeth; Morse, Daniel E.

2014-01-01

Loliginid squid dynamically tune the structural iridescence of cells in their skin for active camouflage and communication. Bragg reflectors in these cells consist of membrane-bound lamellae periodically alternating with low refractive index extracellular spaces; neuronal signalling induces condensation of the reflectin proteins that fill the lamellae, consequently triggering the expulsion of water. This causes an increase in refractive index within the lamellae, activating reflectance, with the change in lamellar thickness and spacing progressively shifting the wavelength of reflected light. We used micro-spectrophotometry to measure the functionally relevant refractive index of the high-index lamellae of the Bragg reflectors containing the condensed reflectins in chemically fixed dermal iridocytes of the squid, Doryteuthis opalescens. Our high-magnification imaging spectrometer allowed us to obtain normalized spectra of optically distinct sections of the individual, subcellular, multi-layer Bragg stacks. Replacement of the extracellular fluid with liquids of increasing refractive index allowed us to measure the reflectivity of the Bragg stacks as it decreased progressively to 0 when the refractive index of the extracellular medium exactly matched that of the reflectin-filled lamellae, thus allowing us to directly measure the refractive index of the reflectin-filled lamellae as ncondensed lamellae ≈ 1.44. The measured value of the physiologically relevant ncondensed lamellae from these bright iridocytes falls within the range of values that we recently determined by an independent optical method and is significantly lower than values previously reported for dehydrated and air-dried reflectin films. We propose that this directly measured value for the refractive index of the squid's Bragg lamellae containing the condensed reflectins is most appropriate for calculations of reflectivity in similar reflectin-based high-index layers in other molluscs. PMID:24694894

Pressure Sensing in High-Refractive-Index Liquids Using Long-Period Gratings Nanocoated with Silicon Nitride

PubMed Central

Smietana, Mateusz; Bock, Wojtek J.; Mikulic, Predrag; Chen, Jiahua

2010-01-01

The paper presents a novel pressure sensor based on a silicon nitride (SiNx) nanocoated long-period grating (LPG). The high-temperature, radio-frequency plasma-enhanced chemical-vapor-deposited (RF PECVD) SiNx nanocoating was applied to tune the sensitivity of the LPG to the external refractive index. The technique allows for deposition of good quality, hard and wear-resistant nanofilms as required for optical sensors. Thanks to the SiNx nanocoating it is possible to overcome a limitation of working in the external-refractive-index range, which for a bare fiber cannot be close to that of the cladding. The nanocoated LPG-based sensing structure we developed is functional in high-refractive-index liquids (nd > 1.46) such as oil or gasoline, with pressure sensitivity as high as when water is used as a working liquid. The nanocoating developed for this experiment not only has the highest refractive index ever achieved in LPGs (n > 2.2 at λ = 1,550 nm), but is also the thinnest (<100 nm) able to tune the external-refractive-index sensitivity of the gratings. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time a nanocoating has been applied on LPGs that is able to simultaneously tune the refractive-index sensitivity and to enable measurements of other parameters. PMID:22163527

Refractive-index-sensing fiber comb using intracavity multi-mode interference fiber sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oe, Ryo; Minamikawa, Takeo; Taue, Shuji; Fukano, Hideki; Nakajima, Yoshiaki; Minoshima, Kaoru; Yasui, Takeshi

2018-02-01

Refractive index measurement is important for evaluation of liquid materials, optical components, and bio sensing. One promising approach for such measurement is use of optical fiber sensors such as surface plasmonic resonance or multi-mode interference (MMI), which measure the change of optical spectrum resulting from the refractive index change. However, the precision of refractive index measurement is limited by the performance of optical spectrum analyzer. If such the refractive index measurement can be performed in radio frequency (RF) region in place of optical region, the measurement precision will be further improved by the frequency-standard-based RF measurement. To this end, we focus on the disturbance-to-RF conversion in a fiber optical frequency comb (OFC) cavity. Since frequency spacing frep of OFC depends on an optical cavity length nL, frep sensitively reflects the external disturbance interacted with nL. Although we previously demonstrated the precise strain measurement based on the frep measurement, the measurable physical quantity is limited to strain or temperature, which directly interacts with the fiber cavity itself. If a functional fiber sensor can be installed into the fiber OFC cavity, the measurable physical quantity will be largely expanded. In this paper, we introduce a MMI fiber sensor into a ring-type fiber OFC cavity for refractive index measurement. We confirmed the refractive-index-dependent frep shift.

Index of refraction of GaAs-Al(x)Ga(1-x)As superlattices and multiple quantum wells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kahen, K. B.; Leburton, J. P.

1987-01-01

A theoretical study of the index of refraction of superlattices and its variation as a function of frequency and the superlattice parameters, i.e., layer width and AlAs composition, is presented. Gamma-region exciton and valence-band mixing effects are included in the model. It is found that these two effects have an important influence on the value of the index of refraction and that superstructure effects rapidly decrease for energies greater than the superlattice potential barriers. Because of the quasi-two-dimensional character of the Gamma-region excitons, the results indicate that the superlattice index of refraction can vary by about two percent at the quantized, bound-exciton, transition energies. Overall, the theoretical results are in good agreement with the experimental data.

Refractive index of B1-xGaxN semiconductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vyas, P. S.; Baria, J. K.; Jivani, A. R.; Gajjar, P. N.; Jani, A. R.

2013-06-01

A theoretical procedure is presented for the study of refractive index of ternary alloy B1-xGaxN. The calculations based on the pseudopotential formalism in which local potential coupled with the virtual crystal approximation (VCA) is applied to evaluate energy band gap at point X on the Jones-zone face, refractive index for the entire range of the alloy composition x of the ternary alloy B1-xGaxN. To include exchange and correlation effects, local field correction function due to Nagy is employed. Our results for parent compounds are compared to experiment and other available theoretical findings and showed generally good agreement. During present study it is found that the refractive index of the ternary alloy B1-xGaxN has minimum value at gallium concentration x = 0.4.

Tilted Fiber Bragg Grating photowritten in microstructured optical fiber for improved refractive index measurement.

PubMed

Phan Huy, Minh Châu; Laffont, Guillaume; Dewynter, Véronique; Ferdinand, Pierre; Labonté, Laurent; Pagnoux, Dominique; Roy, Philippe; Blanc, Wilfried; Dussardier, Bernard

2006-10-30

We report what we believe to be the first Tilted short-period Fiber Bragg Grating photowritten in a microstructured optical fiber for refractive index measurement. We investigate the spectral sensitivity of Tilted Fiber Bragg Grating to refractive index liquid inserted into the holes of a multimode microstructured fiber. We measure the wavelength shift of the first four modes experimentally observed when calibrated oils are inserted into the fiber holes, and thus we determine the refractive index resolution for each of these modes. Moreover, a cross comparison between experimental and simulation results of a modal analysis is performed. Two simulation tools are used, respectively based on the localized functions method and on a finite element method. All results are in very good agreement.

Determination of the refractive index and thickness of holographic silver halide materials by use of polarized reflectances.

PubMed

Beléndez, Augusto; Beléndez, Tarsicio; Neipp, Cristian; Pascual, Inmaculada

2002-11-10

A method to determine the refractive index and thickness of silver halide emulsions used in holography is presented. The emulsions are in the form of a layer of film deposited on a thick glass plate. The experimental reflectances of p-polarized light are measured as a function of the incident angles, and the values of refractive index, thickness, and extinction coefficient of the emulsion are obtained by using the theoretical equation for reflectance. As examples, five commercial holographic silver halide emulsions are analyzed. The procedure to obtain the measurements and the numerical analysis of the experimental data are simple, and agreement of the calculated reflectances, by use of the thickness and refractive index obtained, with the measured reflectances is satisfactory.

Influence of shape and gradient refractive index in the accommodative changes of spherical aberration in nonhuman primate crystalline lenses.

PubMed

de Castro, Alberto; Birkenfeld, Judith; Maceo, Bianca; Manns, Fabrice; Arrieta, Esdras; Parel, Jean-Marie; Marcos, Susana

2013-09-11

To estimate changes in surface shape and gradient refractive index (GRIN) profile in primate lenses as a function of accommodation. To quantify the contribution of surface shape and GRIN to spherical aberration changes with accommodation. Crystalline lenses from 15 cynomolgus monkeys were studied in vitro under different levels of accommodation produced by a stretching system. Lens shape was obtained from optical coherence tomography (OCT) cross-sectional images. The GRIN was reconstructed with a search algorithm using the optical path measured from OCT images and the measured back focal length. The spherical aberration of the lens was estimated as a function of accommodation using the reconstructed GRIN and a homogeneous refractive index. The lens anterior and posterior radii of curvature decreased with increasing lens power. Both surfaces exhibited negative asphericities in the unaccommodated state. The anterior surface conic constant shifted toward less negative values with accommodation, while the value of the posterior remained constant. GRIN parameters remained constant with accommodation. The lens spherical aberration with GRIN distribution was negative and higher in magnitude than that with a homogeneous equivalent refractive index (by 29% and 53% in the unaccommodated and fully accommodated states, respectively). Spherical aberration with the equivalent refractive index shifted with accommodation toward negative values (-0.070 μm/diopter [D]), but the reconstructed GRIN shifted it farther (-0.124 μm/D). When compared with the lens with the homogeneous equivalent refractive index, the reconstructed GRIN lens has more negative spherical aberration and a larger shift toward more negative values with accommodation.

Design of Amphoteric Refraction Models Using WAVICA and RAYICA

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Su, Richard

2004-01-01

The phenomenon of refraction of light is due to refractive index mismatches in two different media. However, to achieve this effect, a finite reflection loss is inevitable. A recent finding presented a unique type of interface, ferroelastic materials, that enables refraction without any reflection for either an electron or a light beam. This property is called total refraction. The same type of interface that yields total refraction can also yield amphoteric refraction, where the index of refraction can be either positive or negative depending on the incident angle. This interface could potentially be used to steer light without reflections which could have major applications in high power optics. My goal this summer is to first familiarize myself with the Mathematica software, especially the Wavica and Rayica packages. I will then model the amphoteric refraction by either modifying the Wavica and Rayica packages or using the built-in functions in these packages.

Recovering refractive index correlation function from measurement of tissue scattering phase function (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rogers, Jeremy D.

2016-03-01

Numerous methods have been developed to quantify the light scattering properties of tissue. These properties are of interest in diagnostic and screening applications due to sensitivity to changes in tissue ultrastructure and changes associated with disease such as cancer. Tissue is considered a weak scatterer because that the mean free path is much larger than the correlation length. When this is the case, all scattering properties can be calculated from the refractive index correlation function Bn(r). Direct measurement of Bn(r) is challenging because it requires refractive index measurement at high resolution over a large tissue volume. Instead, a model is usually assumed. One particularly useful model, the Whittle-Matern function includes several realistic function types such as mass fractal and exponential. Optical scattering properties for weakly scattering media can be determined analytically from Bn(r) by applying the Rayleigh-Gans-Debye (RGD) or Born Approximation, and so measured scattering properties are used to fit parameters of the model function. Direct measurement of Bn(r) would provide confirmation that the function is a good representation of tissue or help in identifying the length scale at which changes occur. The RGD approximation relates the scattering phase function to the refractive index correlation function through a Fourier transform. This can be inverted without approximation, so goniometric measurement of the scattering can be converted to Bn(r). However, geometric constraints of the measurement of the phase function, angular resolution, and wavelength result in a band limited measurement of Bn(r). These limits are discussed and example measurements are described.

Improved algorithm of ray tracing in ICF cryogenic targets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Rui; Yang, Yongying; Ling, Tong; Jiang, Jiabin

2016-10-01

The high precision ray tracing inside inertial confinement fusion (ICF) cryogenic targets plays an important role in the reconstruction of the three-dimensional density distribution by algebraic reconstruction technique (ART) algorithm. The traditional Runge-Kutta methods, which is restricted by the precision of the grid division and the step size of ray tracing, cannot make an accurate calculation in the case of refractive index saltation. In this paper, we propose an improved algorithm of ray tracing based on the Runge-Kutta methods and Snell's law of refraction to achieve high tracing precision. On the boundary of refractive index, we apply Snell's law of refraction and contact point search algorithm to ensure accuracy of the simulation. Inside the cryogenic target, the combination of the Runge-Kutta methods and self-adaptive step algorithm are employed for computation. The original refractive index data, which is used to mesh the target, can be obtained by experimental measurement or priori refractive index distribution function. A finite differential method is performed to calculate the refractive index gradient of mesh nodes, and the distance weighted average interpolation methods is utilized to obtain refractive index and gradient of each point in space. In the simulation, we take ideal ICF target, Luneberg lens and Graded index rod as simulation model to calculate the spot diagram and wavefront map. Compared the simulation results to Zemax, it manifests that the improved algorithm of ray tracing based on the fourth-order Runge-Kutta methods and Snell's law of refraction exhibits high accuracy. The relative error of the spot diagram is 0.2%, and the peak-to-valley (PV) error and the root-mean-square (RMS) error of the wavefront map is less than λ/35 and λ/100, correspondingly.

Cryogenic refractive index of Heraeus homosil glass

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miller, Kevin H.; Quijada, Manuel A.; Leviton, Douglas B.

2017-08-01

This paper reports measurements of the refractive index of Homosil (Heraeus) over the wavelength range of 0.34—3.16 μm and temperature range of 120—335 K. These measurements were performed by using the Cryogenic High Accuracy Refraction Measuring System (CHARMS) facility at the NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. These measurements were in support of an integrated Structural-Thermal-Optical-Performance (STOP) model that was developed for a fieldwidened Michelson interferometer that is being built and tested for the High Spectral Resolution Lidar (HSRL) project at the NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC). The cryogenic refractive index measurements were required in order to account for the highly sensitive performance of the HSRL instrument to changes in refractive index with temperature, temperature gradients, thermal expansion, and deformation due to mounting stresses. A dense coverage of the absolute refractive index over the aforementioned wavelength and temperature ranges was used to determine the thermo-optic coefficient (dn/dT) and dispersion relation (dn/dλ) as a function of wavelength and temperature. Our measurements of Homosil will be compared with measurements of other glasses from the fused silica family studied in CHARMS as well as measurements reported elsewhere in the literature.

Cryogenic Refractive Index of Heraeus Homosil Glass

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miller, Kevin H.; Quijada, Manuel A.; Leviton, Douglas B.

2017-01-01

This paper reports measurements of the refractive index of Homosil (Heraeus) over the wavelength range of 0.343.16 m and temperature range of 120335 K. These measurements were performed by using the Cryogenic High Accuracy Refraction Measuring System (CHARMS) facility at the NASAs Goddard Space Flight Center. These measurements were in support of an integrated Structural-Thermal-Optical-Performance (STOP) model that was developed for a field-widened Michelson interferometer that is being built and tested for the High Spectral Resolution Lidar (HSRL) project at the NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC). The cryogenic refractive index measurements were required in order to account for the highly sensitivity performance of the HSRL instrument to changes in refractive index with temperature, temperature gradients, thermal expansion, and deformation due to mounting stresses. A dense coverage of the absolute refractive index over the aforementioned wavelength and temperature ranges was used to determine the thermo-optic coefficient (dndT) and dispersion relation (dnd) as a function of wavelength and temperature. Our measurements of Homosil will be compared with measurements of other glasses from the fused silica family studied in CHARMS as well as measurements reported elsewhere in literature.

Empirical modelling to predict the refractive index of human blood.

PubMed

Yahya, M; Saghir, M Z

2016-02-21

Optical techniques used for the measurement of the optical properties of blood are of great interest in clinical diagnostics. Blood analysis is a routine procedure used in medical diagnostics to confirm a patient's condition. Measuring the optical properties of blood is difficult due to the non-homogenous nature of the blood itself. In addition, there is a lot of variation in the refractive indices reported in the literature. These are the reasons that motivated the researchers to develop a mathematical model that can be used to predict the refractive index of human blood as a function of concentration, temperature and wavelength. The experimental measurements were conducted on mimicking phantom hemoglobin samples using the Abbemat Refractometer. The results analysis revealed a linear relationship between the refractive index and concentration as well as temperature, and a non-linear relationship between refractive index and wavelength. These results are in agreement with those found in the literature. In addition, a new formula was developed based on empirical modelling which suggests that temperature and wavelength coefficients be added to the Barer formula. The verification of this correlation confirmed its ability to determine refractive index and/or blood hematocrit values with appropriate clinical accuracy.

Cryogenic Refractive Index of Heraeus Homosil Glass

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miller, Kevin H.; Quijada, Manuel A.; Leviton, Douglas B.

2017-01-01

This paper reports measurements of the refractive index of Homosil (Heraeus) over the wavelength range of 0.34-3.16 microns and temperature range of 120-335 K. These measurements were performed by using the Cryogenic High Accuracy Refraction Measuring System (CHARMS) facility at the NASAs Goddard Space Flight Center. These measurements were in support of an integrated Structural-Thermal-Optical-Performance (STOP) model that was developed for a field-widened Michelson interferometer that is being built and tested for the High Spectral Resolution Lidar (HSRL) project at the NASA Langley Research Center (LaRC). The cryogenic refractive index measurements were required in order to account for the highly sensitivity performance of the HSRL instrument to changes in refractive index with temperature, temperature gradients, thermal expansion, and deformation due to mounting stresses. A dense coverage of the absolute refractive index over the aforementioned wavelength and temperature ranges was used to determine the thermo-optic coefficient (dn/dT) and dispersion relation (dn/d(lamda)) as a function of wavelength and temperature. Our measurements of Homosil will be compared with measurements of other glasses from the fused silica family studied in CHARMS as well as measurements reported elsewhere in literature.

The optical properties of regenerated silk fibroin films obtained from different sources

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Perotto, Giovanni; Zhang, Yuji; Naskar, Deboki; Patel, Nereus; Kaplan, David L.; Kundu, Subhas C.; Omenetto, Fiorenzo G.

2017-09-01

Silk fibroin possesses unique properties for bio-functional optical interfaces and has been attracting increasing interest as an optical material. Here, we report on the refractive index and absorption coefficient of silk fibroin extracted from Bombyx mori, Antheraea mylitta, Samia ricini, and Antheraea assamensis. The influence of protein molecular weight, residual water content, and crystallinity on refractive index was investigated. The parameters for the Cauchy dispersion law and Urbach absorption were determined for each of the silk fibroins. By exploiting the differences in refractive index between the different fibroins, an all-protein slab waveguide was fabricated.

Controlled simulation of optical turbulence in a temperature gradient air chamber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Toselli, Italo; Wang, Fei; Korotkova, Olga

2016-05-01

Atmospheric turbulence simulator is built and characterized for in-lab optical wave propagation with controlled strength of the refractive-index fluctuations. The temperature gradients are generated by a sequence of heat guns with controlled individual strengths. The temperature structure functions are measured in two directions transverse to propagation path with the help of a thermocouple array and used for evaluation of the corresponding refractive-index structure functions of optical turbulence.

Colloidal gold-modified optical fiber for chemical and biochemical sensing.

PubMed

Cheng, Shu-Fang; Chau, Lai-Kwan

2003-01-01

A novel class of fiber-optic evanescent-wave sensor was constructed on the basis of modification of the unclad portion of an optical fiber with self-assembled gold colloids. The optical properties and, hence, the attenuated total reflection spectrum of self-assembled gold colloids on the optical fiber changes with different refractive index of the environment near the colloidal gold surface. With sucrose solutions of increasing refractive index, the sensor response decreases linearly. The colloidal gold surface was also functionalized with glycine, succinic acid, or biotin to enhance the selectivity of the sensor. Results show that the sensor response decreases linearly with increasing concentration of each analyte. When the colloidal gold surface was functionalized with biotin, the detection limit of the sensor for streptavidin was 9.8 x 10(-11) M. Using this approach, we demonstrate proof-of-concept of a class of refractive index sensor that is sensitive to the refractive index of the environment near the colloidal gold surface and, hence, is suitable for label-free detection of molecular or biomolecular binding at the surface of gold colloids.

Refractive index dispersion sensing using an array of photonic crystal resonant reflectors

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hermannsson, Pétur G.; Vannahme, Christoph; Smith, Cameron L. C.

2015-08-10

Refractive index sensing plays a key role in various environmental and biological sensing applications. Here, a method is presented for measuring the absolute refractive index dispersion of liquids using an array of photonic crystal resonant reflectors of varying periods. It is shown that by covering the array with a sample liquid and measuring the resonance wavelength associated with transverse electric polarized quasi guided modes as a function of period, the refractive index dispersion of the liquid can be accurately obtained using an analytical expression. This method is compact, can perform measurements at arbitrary number of wavelengths, and requires only amore » minute sample volume. The ability to sense a material's dispersion profile offers an added dimension of information that may be of benefit to optofluidic lab-on-a-chip applications.« less

Interferometric atmospheric refractive-index environmental monitor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ludman, Jacques E.; Ludman, Jacques J.; Callahan, Heidi; Robinson, John; Davis, Seth; Caulfield, H. John; Watt, David; Sampson, John L.; Hunt, Arlon

1995-06-01

Long, open-path, outdoor interferometric measurement of the index of refraction as a function of wavelength (spectral refractivity) requires a number of innovations. These include active compensation for vibration and turbulence. The use of electronic compensation produces an electronic signal that is ideal for extracting data. This allows the appropriate interpretation of those data and the systematic and fast scanning of the spectrum by the use of bandwidths that are intermediate between lasers (narrow bandwidth) and white light (broad bandwidth). An Environmental Interferometer that incorporates these features should be extremely valuable in both pollutant detection and pollutant identification. Spectral refractivity measurements complement the information available

Refractive index and its impact on pseudophakic dysphotopsia.

PubMed

Radmall, Bryce R; Floyd, Anne; Oakey, Zack; Olson, Randall J

2015-01-01

It has been shown that the biggest dissatisfier for uncomplicated cataract surgery patients is pseudophakic dysphotopsia (PD). While edge design of an intraocular lens (IOL) impacts this problem, refractive index is still controversial as to its impact. This retrospective cohort study was designed to determine the role of increasing refractive index in PD. This study was conducted at the John A. Moran Eye Center, University of Utah, USA. A retrospective chart review identified patients who received one of two hydrophobic acrylic single piece IOLs (AcrySof WF SP [SN60WF] or Tecnis SP [ZCB00]), which differed mainly by refractive index (1.55 versus 1.47). Eighty-seven patients who had received implantation of a one-piece hydrophobic acrylic IOL were enrolled. Patients were included if the surgery had been uncomplicated and took place at least a year before study participation. All eligible patients had 20/20 best corrected vision, without any disease known to impact visual quality. In addition to conducting a record review, the enrolled patients were surveyed for PD, using a modified National Eye Institute Visual Function questionnaire, as well as for overall satisfaction with visual quality. Statistical analysis demonstrated no difference between the two cohorts regarding PD, general visual function, and overall visual satisfaction. The study suggests that with the two IOLs assessed, increasing the refractive index does not increase incidence of PD or decrease overall visual satisfaction.

Optical fiber design and the trapping of Cerenkov radiation.

PubMed

Law, S H; Fleming, S C; Suchowerska, N; McKenzie, D R

2006-12-20

Cerenkov radiation is generated in optical fibers immersed in radiation fields and can interfere with signal transmission. We develop a theory for predicting the intensity of Cerenkov radiation generated within the core of a multimode optical fiber by using a ray optic approach and use it to make predictions of the intensity of radiation transmitted down the fiber in propagating modes. The intensity transmitted down the fiber is found to be dominated by bound rays with a contribution from tunneling rays. It is confirmed that for relativistic particles the intensity of the radiation that is transmitted along the fiber is a function of the angle between the particle beam and the fiber axis. The angle of peak intensity is found to be a function of the fiber refractive index difference as well as the core refractive index, with larger refractive index differences shifting the peak significantly toward lower angles. The angular range of the distribution is also significantly increased in both directions by increasing the fiber refractive index difference. The intensity of the radiation is found to be proportional to the cube of the fiber core radius in addition to its dependence on refractive index difference. As the particle energy is reduced into the nonrelativistic range the entire distribution is shifted toward lower angles. Recommendations on minimizing the quantity of Cerenkov light transmitted in the fiber optic system in a radiation field are given.

Electronic polarizability of light crude oil from optical and dielectric studies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

George, A. K.; Singh, R. N.

2017-07-01

In the present paper we report the temperature dependence of density, refractive indices and dielectric constant of three samples of crude oils. The API gravity number estimated from the temperature dependent density studies revealed that the three samples fall in the category of light oil. The measured data of refractive index and the density are used to evaluate the polarizability of these fluids. Molar refractive index and the molar volume are evaluated through Lorentz-Lorenz equation. The function of the refractive index, FRI , divided by the mass density ρ, is a constant approximately equal to one-third and is invariant with temperature for all the samples. The measured values of the dielectric constant decrease linearly with increasing temperature for all the samples. The dielectric constant estimated from the refractive index measurements using Lorentz-Lorentz equation agrees well with the measured values. The results are promising since all the three measured properties complement each other and offer a simple and reliable method for estimating crude oil properties, in the absence of sufficient data.

Artificial dielectric stepped-refractive-index lens for the terahertz region.

PubMed

Hernandez-Serrano, A I; Mendis, Rajind; Reichel, Kimberly S; Zhang, Wei; Castro-Camus, E; Mittleman, Daniel M

2018-02-05

In this paper we theoretically and experimentally demonstrate a stepped-refractive-index convergent lens made of a parallel stack of metallic plates for terahertz frequencies based on artificial dielectrics. The lens consist of a non-uniformly spaced stack of metallic plates, forming a mirror-symmetric array of parallel-plate waveguides (PPWGs). The operation of the device is based on the TE 1 mode of the PPWG. The effective refractive index of the TE 1 mode is a function of the frequency of operation and the spacing between the plates of the PPWG. By varying the spacing between the plates, we can modify the local refractive index of the structure in every individual PPWG that constitutes the lens producing a stepped refractive index profile across the multi stack structure. The theoretical and experimental results show that this structure is capable of focusing a 1 cm diameter beam to a line focus of less than 4 mm for the design frequency of 0.18 THz. This structure shows that this artificial-dielectric concept is an important technology for the fabrication of next generation terahertz devices.

Temperature-dependent Absolute Refractive Index Measurements of Synthetic Fused Silica

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leviton, Douglas B.; Frey, Bradley J.

2006-01-01

Using the Cryogenic, High-Accuracy Refraction Measuring System (CHARMS) at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, we have measured the absolute refractive index of five specimens taken from a very large boule of Corning 7980 fused silica from temperatures ranging from 30 to 310 K at wavelengths from 0.4 to 2.6 microns with an absolute uncertainty of plus or minus 1 x 10 (exp -5). Statistical variations in derived values of the thermo-optic coefficient (dn/dT) are at the plus or minus 2 x 10 (exp -8)/K level. Graphical and tabulated data for absolute refractive index, dispersion, and thermo-optic coefficient are presented for selected wavelengths and temperatures along with estimates of uncertainty in index. Coefficients for temperature-dependent Sellmeier fits of measured refractive index are also presented to allow accurate interpolation of index to other wavelengths and temperatures. We compare our results to those from an independent investigation (which used an interferometric technique for measuring index changes as a function of temperature) whose samples were prepared from the same slugs of material from which our prisms were prepared in support of the Kepler mission. We also compare our results with sparse cryogenic index data from measurements of this material from the literature.

Extended bidirectional reflectance distribution function for polarized light scattering from subsurface defects under a smooth surface.

PubMed

Shen, Jian; Deng, Degang; Kong, Weijin; Liu, Shijie; Shen, Zicai; Wei, Chaoyang; He, Hongbo; Shao, Jianda; Fan, Zhengxiu

2006-11-01

By introducing the scattering probability of a subsurface defect (SSD) and statistical distribution functions of SSD radius, refractive index, and position, we derive an extended bidirectional reflectance distribution function (BRDF) from the Jones scattering matrix. This function is applicable to the calculation for comparison with measurement of polarized light-scattering resulting from a SSD. A numerical calculation of the extended BRDF for the case of p-polarized incident light was performed by means of the Monte Carlo method. Our numerical results indicate that the extended BRDF strongly depends on the light incidence angle, the light scattering angle, and the out-of-plane azimuth angle. We observe a 180 degrees symmetry with respect to the azimuth angle. We further investigate the influence of the SSD density, the substrate refractive index, and the statistical distributions of the SSD radius and refractive index on the extended BRDF. For transparent substrates, we also find the dependence of the extended BRDF on the SSD positions.

Influence of Shape and Gradient Refractive Index in the Accommodative Changes of Spherical Aberration in Nonhuman Primate Crystalline Lenses

PubMed Central

de Castro, Alberto; Birkenfeld, Judith; Maceo, Bianca; Manns, Fabrice; Arrieta, Esdras; Parel, Jean-Marie; Marcos, Susana

2013-01-01

Purpose. To estimate changes in surface shape and gradient refractive index (GRIN) profile in primate lenses as a function of accommodation. To quantify the contribution of surface shape and GRIN to spherical aberration changes with accommodation. Methods. Crystalline lenses from 15 cynomolgus monkeys were studied in vitro under different levels of accommodation produced by a stretching system. Lens shape was obtained from optical coherence tomography (OCT) cross-sectional images. The GRIN was reconstructed with a search algorithm using the optical path measured from OCT images and the measured back focal length. The spherical aberration of the lens was estimated as a function of accommodation using the reconstructed GRIN and a homogeneous refractive index. Results. The lens anterior and posterior radii of curvature decreased with increasing lens power. Both surfaces exhibited negative asphericities in the unaccommodated state. The anterior surface conic constant shifted toward less negative values with accommodation, while the value of the posterior remained constant. GRIN parameters remained constant with accommodation. The lens spherical aberration with GRIN distribution was negative and higher in magnitude than that with a homogeneous equivalent refractive index (by 29% and 53% in the unaccommodated and fully accommodated states, respectively). Spherical aberration with the equivalent refractive index shifted with accommodation toward negative values (−0.070 μm/diopter [D]), but the reconstructed GRIN shifted it farther (−0.124 μm/D). Conclusions. When compared with the lens with the homogeneous equivalent refractive index, the reconstructed GRIN lens has more negative spherical aberration and a larger shift toward more negative values with accommodation. PMID:23927893

Rapid Inversion of Angular Deflection Data for Certain Axisymmetric Refractive Index Distributions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rubinstein, R.; Greenberg, P. S.

1994-01-01

Certain functions useful for representing axisymmetric refractive-index distributions are shown to have exact solutions for Abel transformation of the resulting angular deflection data. An advantage of this procedure over direct numerical Abel inversion is that least-squares curve fitting is a smoothing process that reduces the noise sensitivity of the computation

Simultaneous measurement of liquid absorbance and refractive index using a compact optofluidic probe.

PubMed

Malak, Maurine; Marty, Frédéric; Bourouina, Tarik; Angelescu, Dan

2013-07-21

We present a novel optical technique for simultaneously measuring the absorbance and the refractive index of a thin film using an infrared optofluidic probe. Experiments were carried on two different liquids and the results agree with the bibliographical data. The ultimate goal is to achieve a multi-functional micro-optical device for analytical applications.

Structural and opto-electronic properties of 2D AlSb monolayer

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Singh, Deobrat, E-mail: deobratsingh9@gmail.com; Sonvane, Yogesh; Gupta, Sanjeev K.

2016-05-23

We have investigated dielectric function related optical properties such as refractive index, absorption coefficient of two-dimensional hexagonal system of aluminum antimony (AlSb). We have also find structural and electronic properties of AlSb which show direct/indirect band gap with planar structure, employing the density functional theory using the generalized gradient approximation (GGA) given by Perdew-Burke-Ernzerhof (PBE) functional for exchange-correlation potential. The refractive index n(ω) increases with frequency in the near infrared region but in visible region n(ω) increasing after decrease.

Index of refraction measurements and window corrections for PMMA under shock compression

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chapman, David James; Eakins, Daniel E.; Williamson, David Martin; Proud, William

2012-03-01

Symmetric plate impact experiments were performed to investigate the change in the refractive index of Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) under shock loading. Flyer and target geometries allowed the measurement of shock velocity, particle velocity, and refractive index in the shocked state, using a Het-V system (1550 nm). The change in refractive index of PMMA as a function of density is generally considered to be well described by the Gladstone-Dale relationship, meaning that the "apparent" velocity measured by a laser velocity interferometer is the "true" velocity, and hence there is no window correction. The results presented here demonstrate that the behaviour of PMMA deviates from an ideal Gladstone-Dale description, requiring a small velocity correction of order 1% at peak stresses up to 1.9 GPa. These results are consistent with literature values measured using a wavelength of 632.8 nm by [1].

On the effective refractive index of blood

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nahmad-Rohen, Alexander; Contreras-Tello, Humberto; Morales-Luna, Gesuri; García-Valenzuela, Augusto

2016-01-01

We calculated the real and imaginary parts of the effective refractive index {n}{eff} of blood as functions of wavelength from 400 to 800 nm; we employed van de Hulst’s theory, together with the anomalous diffraction approximation, for the calculation. We modelled blood as a mixture of plasma and erythrocytes. Our results indicate that erythrocyte orientation has a strong effect on {n}{eff}, making blood an optically anisotropic medium except when the erythrocytes are randomly oriented. In the case in which their symmetry axis is perpendicular to the wave vector, {n}{eff} equals the refractive index of plasma at certain wavelengths. Furthermore, the erythrocytes’ shape affects their contribution to {n}{eff} in an important way, implying that studies on the effective refractive index of blood should avoid approximating them as spheres or spheroids. Finally, the effective refractive index of blood predicted by van de Hulst’s theory is different from what would be obtained by averaging the refractive indices of its constituents weighted by volume; such a volume-weighted average is appropriate only for haemolysed blood. We then measured the real part of the refractive index of various blood solutions using two different experimental setups. One of the most important results of our expriment is that {n}{eff} is measurable to a good degree of precision even for undiluted blood, although not all measuring apparatuses are appropriate. The experimental data is self-consistent and in reasonable agreement with our theoretical calculations.

Effective refractive index and first-order-mode cutoff conditions in InGaAsP/InP DH laser structures /lambda = 1.2-1.6 microns/

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Botez, D.

1982-01-01

A highly accurate analytical expression for the effective refractive index in In GaAsP/InP DH lasers emitting in the 1.2-1.6 micron range is presented. This closed-form expression is used to derive simple wavelength-independent expressions for the first-order mode cutoff conditions of various lateral waveguides. The effective refractive index is a function of emission wavelength and active layer thickness, and the mode cutoff conditions are compared to experimental data from mode-stabilized 1.3 and 1.55 micron DH lasers.

Numerical computations on one-dimensional inverse scattering problems

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dunn, M. H.; Hariharan, S. I.

1983-01-01

An approximate method to determine the index of refraction of a dielectric obstacle is presented. For simplicity one dimensional models of electromagnetic scattering are treated. The governing equations yield a second order boundary value problem, in which the index of refraction appears as a functional parameter. The availability of reflection coefficients yield two additional boundary conditions. The index of refraction by a k-th order spline which can be written as a linear combination of B-splines is approximated. For N distinct reflection coefficients, the resulting N boundary value problems yield a system of N nonlinear equations in N unknowns which are the coefficients of the B-splines.

Measurement method for the refractive index of thick solid and liquid layers.

PubMed

Santić, Branko; Gracin, Davor; Juraić, Krunoslav

2009-08-01

A simple method is proposed for the refractive index measurement of thick solid and liquid layers. In contrast to interferometric methods, no mirrors are used, and the experimental setup is undemanding and simple. The method is based on the variation of transmission caused by optical interference within the layer as a function of incidence angle. A new equation is derived for the positions of the interference extrema versus incidence angle. Scattering at the surfaces and within the sample, as well as weak absorption, do not play important roles. The method is illustrated by the refractive index measurements of sapphire, window glass, and water.

Refractive index and birefringence of 2H silicon carbide

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Powell, J. A.

1972-01-01

The refractive indices of 2H SiC were measured over the wavelength range 435.8 to 650.9 nm by the method of minimum deviation. At the wavelength lambda = 546.1 nm, the ordinary index n sub 0 was 2.6480 and the extraordinary index n sub e was 2.7237. The estimated error (standard deviation) in the measured values is 0.0006 for n sub 0 and 0.0009 for n sub e. The experimental data were curve fitted to the Cauchy equation for the index of refraction as a function of wavelength. The birefringence of 2H SiC was found to vary from 0.0719 at lambda = 650.9 nm to 0.0846 at lambda = 435.8 nm.

Experimental and numerical study of underwater beam propagation in a Rayleigh-Bénard turbulence tank.

PubMed

Nootz, Gero; Matt, Silvia; Kanaev, Andrey; Judd, Kyle P; Hou, Weilin

2017-08-01

The propagation of a laser beam through Rayleigh-Bénard (RB) turbulence is investigated experimentally and by way of numerical simulation. For the experimental part, a focused laser beam transversed a 5  m×0.5  m×0.5  m water filled tank lengthwise. The tank is heated from the bottom and cooled from the top to produce convective RB turbulence. The effect of the turbulence on the beam is recorded on the exit of the beam from the tank. From the centroid motion of the beam, the index of refraction structure constant Cn2 is determined. For the numerical efforts RB turbulence is simulated for a tank of the same geometry. The simulated temperature fields are converted to the index of refraction distributions, and Cn2 is extracted from the index of refraction structure functions, as well as from the simulated beam wander. To model the effect on beam propagation, the simulated index of refraction fields are converted to discrete index of refraction phase screens. These phase screens are then used in a split-step beam propagation method to investigate the effect of the turbulence on a laser beam. The beam wander as well as the index of refraction structure parameter Cn2 determined from the experiment and simulation are compared and found to be in good agreement.

A single-layer wide-angle negative-index metamaterial at visible frequencies.

PubMed

Burgos, Stanley P; de Waele, Rene; Polman, Albert; Atwater, Harry A

2010-05-01

Metamaterials are materials with artificial electromagnetic properties defined by their sub-wavelength structure rather than their chemical composition. Negative-index materials (NIMs) are a special class of metamaterials characterized by an effective negative index that gives rise to such unusual wave behaviour as backwards phase propagation and negative refraction. These extraordinary properties lead to many interesting functions such as sub-diffraction imaging and invisibility cloaking. So far, NIMs have been realized through layering of resonant structures, such as split-ring resonators, and have been demonstrated at microwave to infrared frequencies over a narrow range of angles-of-incidence and polarization. However, resonant-element NIM designs suffer from the limitations of not being scalable to operate at visible frequencies because of intrinsic fabrication limitations, require multiple functional layers to achieve strong scattering and have refractive indices that are highly dependent on angle of incidence and polarization. Here we report a metamaterial composed of a single layer of coupled plasmonic coaxial waveguides that exhibits an effective refractive index of -2 in the blue spectral region with a figure-of-merit larger than 8. The resulting NIM refractive index is insensitive to both polarization and angle-of-incidence over a +/-50 degree angular range, yielding a wide-angle NIM at visible frequencies.

An investigation of matched index of refraction technique and its application in optical measurements of fluid flow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Amini, Noushin; Hassan, Yassin A.

2012-12-01

Optical distortions caused by non-uniformities of the refractive index within the measurement volume is a major impediment for all laser diagnostic imaging techniques applied in experimental fluid dynamic studies. Matching the refractive indices of the working fluid and the test section walls and interfaces provides an effective solution to this problem. The experimental set-ups designed to be used along with laser imaging techniques are typically constructed of transparent solid materials. In this investigation, different types of aqueous salt solutions and various organic fluids are studied for refractive index matching with acrylic and fused quartz, which are commonly used in construction of the test sections. One aqueous CaCl2·2H2O solution (63 % by weight) and two organic fluids, Dibutyl Phthalate and P-Cymene, are suggested for refractive index matching with fused quartz and acrylic, respectively. Moreover, the temperature dependence of the refractive indices of these fluids is investigated, and the Thermooptic Constant is calculated for each fluid. Finally, the fluid viscosity for different shear rates is measured as a function of temperature and is applied to characterize the physical behavior of the proposed fluids.

Measuring the Refractive Index of Highly Crystalline Monolayer MoS2 with High Confidence

PubMed Central

Zhang, Hui; Ma, Yaoguang; Wan, Yi; Rong, Xin; Xie, Ziang; Wang, Wei; Dai, Lun

2015-01-01

Monolayer molybdenum disulphide (MoS2) has attracted much attention, due to its attractive properties, such as two-dimensional properties, direct bandgap, valley-selective circular dichroism, and valley Hall effect. However, some of its fundamental physical parameters, e.g. refractive index, have not been studied in detail because of measurement difficulties. In this work, we have synthesized highly crystalline monolayer MoS2 on SiO2/Si substrates via chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method and devised a method to measure their optical contrast spectra. Using these contrast spectra, we extracted the complex refractive index spectrum of monolayer MoS2 in the wavelength range of 400 nm to 750 nm. We have analyzed the pronounced difference between the obtained complex refractive index spectrum and that of bulk MoS2. The method presented here is effective for two-dimensional materials of small size. Furthermore, we have calculated the color contour plots of the contrast as a function of both SiO2 thickness and incident light wavelength for monolayer MoS2 using the obtained refractive index spectrum. These plots are useful for both fundamental study and device application. PMID:25676089

Measuring the refractive index of highly crystalline monolayer MoS2 with high confidence.

PubMed

Zhang, Hui; Ma, Yaoguang; Wan, Yi; Rong, Xin; Xie, Ziang; Wang, Wei; Dai, Lun

2015-02-13

Monolayer molybdenum disulphide (MoS2) has attracted much attention, due to its attractive properties, such as two-dimensional properties, direct bandgap, valley-selective circular dichroism, and valley Hall effect. However, some of its fundamental physical parameters, e.g. refractive index, have not been studied in detail because of measurement difficulties. In this work, we have synthesized highly crystalline monolayer MoS2 on SiO2/Si substrates via chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method and devised a method to measure their optical contrast spectra. Using these contrast spectra, we extracted the complex refractive index spectrum of monolayer MoS2 in the wavelength range of 400 nm to 750 nm. We have analyzed the pronounced difference between the obtained complex refractive index spectrum and that of bulk MoS2. The method presented here is effective for two-dimensional materials of small size. Furthermore, we have calculated the color contour plots of the contrast as a function of both SiO2 thickness and incident light wavelength for monolayer MoS2 using the obtained refractive index spectrum. These plots are useful for both fundamental study and device application.

Measuring the Refractive Index of Highly Crystalline Monolayer MoS2 with High Confidence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Hui; Ma, Yaoguang; Wan, Yi; Rong, Xin; Xie, Ziang; Wang, Wei; Dai, Lun

2015-02-01

Monolayer molybdenum disulphide (MoS2) has attracted much attention, due to its attractive properties, such as two-dimensional properties, direct bandgap, valley-selective circular dichroism, and valley Hall effect. However, some of its fundamental physical parameters, e.g. refractive index, have not been studied in detail because of measurement difficulties. In this work, we have synthesized highly crystalline monolayer MoS2 on SiO2/Si substrates via chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method and devised a method to measure their optical contrast spectra. Using these contrast spectra, we extracted the complex refractive index spectrum of monolayer MoS2 in the wavelength range of 400 nm to 750 nm. We have analyzed the pronounced difference between the obtained complex refractive index spectrum and that of bulk MoS2. The method presented here is effective for two-dimensional materials of small size. Furthermore, we have calculated the color contour plots of the contrast as a function of both SiO2 thickness and incident light wavelength for monolayer MoS2 using the obtained refractive index spectrum. These plots are useful for both fundamental study and device application.

Refractive Index Tuning of Hybrid Materials for Highly Transmissive Luminescent Lanthanide Particle-Polymer Composites.

PubMed

Kim, Paul; Li, Cheng; Riman, Richard E; Watkins, James

2018-03-14

High-refractive-index ZrO 2 nanoparticles were used to tailor the refractive index of a polymer matrix to match that of luminescent lanthanide-ion-doped (La 0.92 Yb 0.075 Er 0.005 F 3 ) light-emitting particles, thereby reducing scattering losses to yield highly transparent emissive composites. Photopolymerization of blends of an amine-modified poly(ether acrylate) oligomer and tailored quantities of ZrO 2 nanoparticles yielded optically transparent composites with tailored refractive indices between 1.49 and 1.69. By matching the refractive index of the matrix to that of La 0.92 Yb 0.075 Er 0.005 F 3 , composites with high transmittance (>85%) and low haze from the visible to infrared regions, bright 1530 nm optical emissions were achieved at solids loadings of La 0.92 Yb 0.075 Er 0.005 F 3 , ranging from 5 to 30 vol %. These optical results suggest that a hybrid matrix approach is a versatile strategy for the fabrication of functional luminescent optical composites of high transparency.

Methods to calibrate and scale axial distances in confocal microscopy as a function of refractive index.

PubMed

Besseling, T H; Jose, J; Van Blaaderen, A

2015-02-01

Accurate distance measurement in 3D confocal microscopy is important for quantitative analysis, volume visualization and image restoration. However, axial distances can be distorted by both the point spread function (PSF) and by a refractive-index mismatch between the sample and immersion liquid, which are difficult to separate. Additionally, accurate calibration of the axial distances in confocal microscopy remains cumbersome, although several high-end methods exist. In this paper we present two methods to calibrate axial distances in 3D confocal microscopy that are both accurate and easily implemented. With these methods, we measured axial scaling factors as a function of refractive-index mismatch for high-aperture confocal microscopy imaging. We found that our scaling factors are almost completely linearly dependent on refractive index and that they were in good agreement with theoretical predictions that take the full vectorial properties of light into account. There was however a strong deviation with the theoretical predictions using (high-angle) geometrical optics, which predict much lower scaling factors. As an illustration, we measured the PSF of a correctly calibrated point-scanning confocal microscope and showed that a nearly index-matched, micron-sized spherical object is still significantly elongated due to this PSF, which signifies that care has to be taken when determining axial calibration or axial scaling using such particles. © 2014 The Authors Journal of Microscopy published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Royal Microscopical Society.

Quantum Enhancement of the Index of Refraction in a Bose-Einstein Condensate.

PubMed

Bons, P C; de Haas, R; de Jong, D; Groot, A; van der Straten, P

2016-04-29

We study the index of refraction of an ultracold bosonic gas in the dilute regime. Using phase-contrast imaging with light detuned from resonance by several tens of linewidths, we image a single cloud of ultracold atoms for 100 consecutive shots, which enables the study of the scattering rate as a function of temperature and density using only a single cloud. We observe that the scattering rate is increased below the critical temperature for Bose-Einstein condensation by a factor of 3 compared to the single-atom scattering rate. We show that current atom-light interaction models to second order of the density show a similar increase, where the magnitude of the effect depends on the model that is used to calculate the pair-correlation function. This confirms that the effect of quantum statistics on the index of refraction is dominant in this regime.

First-Principle Study of the Optical Properties of Dilute-P GaN1-xPx Alloys.

PubMed

Borovac, Damir; Tan, Chee-Keong; Tansu, Nelson

2018-04-16

An investigation on the optical properties of dilute-P GaN 1-x P x alloys by First-Principle Density Functional Theory (DFT) methods is presented, for phosphorus (P) content varying from 0% up to 12.5%. Findings on the imaginary and real part of the dielectric function are analyzed and the results are compared with previously reported theoretical works on GaN. The complex refractive index, normal-incidence reflectivity and birefringence are presented and a difference in the refractive index in the visible regime between GaN and GaNP alloys of ~0.3 can be engineered by adding minute amounts of phosphorus, indicating strong potential for refractive index tunability. The optical properties of the GaN 1-x P x alloys indicate their strong potential for implementation in various III-nitride-based photonic waveguide applications and Distributed Bragg Reflectors (DBR).

Broadband measurements of aerosol extinction in the ultraviolet spectral region

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Washenfelder, R. A.; Flores, J. M.; Brock, C. A.; Brown, S. S.; Rudich, Y.

2013-04-01

Aerosols influence the Earth's radiative budget by scattering and absorbing incoming solar radiation. The optical properties of aerosols vary as a function of wavelength, but few measurements have reported the wavelength dependence of aerosol extinction cross sections and complex refractive indices. We describe a new laboratory instrument to measure aerosol optical extinction as a function of wavelength, using cavity enhanced spectroscopy with a broadband light source. The instrument consists of two broadband channels which span the 360-390 and 385-420 nm spectral regions using two light emitting diodes (LED) and a grating spectrometer with charge-coupled device (CCD) detector. We determined aerosol extinction cross sections and directly observed Mie scattering resonances for aerosols that are purely scattering (polystyrene latex spheres and ammonium sulfate), slightly absorbing (Suwannee River fulvic acid), and strongly absorbing (nigrosin dye). We describe an approach for retrieving refractive indices as a function of wavelength from the measured extinction cross sections over the 360-420 nm wavelength region. The retrieved refractive indices for PSL and ammonium sulfate agree within uncertainty with the literature values for this spectral region. The refractive index determined for nigrosin is 1.78 (± 0.03) + 0.19 (± 0.08)i at 360 nm and 1.63 (± 0.03) + 0.21 (± 0.05)i at 420 nm. The refractive index determined for Suwannee River fulvic acid is 1.71 (± 0.02) + 0.07 (± 0.06)i at 360 nm and 1.66 (± 0.02) + 0.06 (± 0.04)i at 420 nm. These laboratory results support the potential for a field instrument capable of determining ambient aerosol optical extinction, average aerosol extinction cross section, and complex refractive index as a function of wavelength.

Broadband measurements of aerosol extinction in the ultraviolet spectral region

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Washenfelder, R. A.; Flores, J. M.; Brock, C. A.; Brown, S. S.; Rudich, Y.

2013-01-01

Aerosols influence the Earth's radiative budget by scattering and absorbing incoming solar radiation. The optical properties of aerosols vary as a function of wavelength, but few measurements have reported the wavelength dependence of aerosol extinction cross-sections and complex refractive indices. We describe a new laboratory instrument to measure aerosol optical extinction as a function of wavelength, using cavity enhanced spectroscopy with a broadband light source. The instrument consists of two broadband channels which span the 360-390 and 385-420 nm spectral regions using two light emitting diodes (LED) and a grating spectrometer with charge-coupled device (CCD) detector. We determined aerosol extinction cross-sections and directly observed Mie scattering resonances for aerosols that are purely scattering (polystyrene latex spheres and ammonium sulfate), slightly absorbing (Suwannee River fulvic acid), and strongly absorbing (nigrosin dye). We describe an approach for retrieving refractive indices as a function of wavelength from the measured extinction cross-sections over the 360-420 nm wavelength region. The retrieved refractive indices for PSL and ammonium sulfate agree within uncertainty with literature values for this spectral region. The refractive index determined for nigrosin is 1.78 (±0.03) + 0.19 (±0.08) i at 360 nm and 1.53 (±0.03) + 0.21 (±0.05) i at 420 nm. The refractive index determined for Suwannee River fulvic acid is 1.71 (±0.02) + 0.07 (±0.06) i at 360 nm and 1.66 (±0.02) + 0.06 (±0.04) i at 420 nm. These laboratory results support the potential for a field instrument capable of determining ambient aerosol optical extinction, average aerosol extinction cross-section, and complex refractive index as a function of wavelength.

First measurements of the index of refraction of gases for lithium atomic waves.

PubMed

Jacquey, M; Büchner, M; Trénec, G; Vigué, J

2007-06-15

We report the first measurements of the index of refraction of gases for lithium waves. Using an atom interferometer, we have measured the real and imaginary parts of the index of refraction n for argon, krypton, and xenon as a function of the gas density for several velocities of the lithium beam. The linear dependence of (n-1) with the gas density is well verified. The total collision cross section deduced from the imaginary part of (n-1) is in very good agreement with traditional measurements of this quantity. Finally, the real and imaginary parts of (n-1) and their ratio rho exhibit glory oscillations, in good agreement with calculations.

Enhanced vibrational spectroscopy, intracellular refractive indexing for label-free biosensing and bioimaging by multiband plasmonic-antenna array.

PubMed

Chen, Cheng-Kuang; Chang, Ming-Hsuan; Wu, Hsieh-Ting; Lee, Yao-Chang; Yen, Ta-Jen

2014-10-15

In this study, we report a multiband plasmonic-antenna array that bridges optical biosensing and intracellular bioimaging without requiring a labeling process or coupler. First, a compact plasmonic-antenna array is designed exhibiting a bandwidth of several octaves for use in both multi-band plasmonic resonance-enhanced vibrational spectroscopy and refractive index probing. Second, a single-element plasmonic antenna can be used as a multifunctional sensing pixel that enables mapping the distribution of targets in thin films and biological specimens by enhancing the signals of vibrational signatures and sensing the refractive index contrast. Finally, using the fabricated plasmonic-antenna array yielded reliable intracellular observation was demonstrated from the vibrational signatures and intracellular refractive index contrast requiring neither labeling nor a coupler. These unique features enable the plasmonic-antenna array to function in a label-free manner, facilitating bio-sensing and imaging development. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Astigmatism of the Ex Vivo Human Lens: Surface and Gradient Refractive Index Age-Dependent Contributions.

PubMed

Birkenfeld, Judith; de Castro, Alberto; Marcos, Susana

2015-08-01

We estimated the contribution of the gradient refractive index (GRIN) and lens surfaces to lens astigmatism and lens astigmatic angle as a function of age in human donor lenses. Human lenses were imaged, ex vivo, with 3D-spectral optical coherence tomography (OCT) and their back focal length was measured using laser ray tracing. The contribution of lens surfaces and GRIN to lens astigmatism were evaluated by computational ray tracing on the GRIN lens and a homogenous equivalent index lens. Astigmatism magnitude and relative astigmatic angle of and between lens surfaces, GRIN lens, and lens with homogeneous refractive index were evaluated, and all results were correlated with age. The magnitude of astigmatism in the anterior lens surface decreased with age (slope = -0.005 diopters [D]/y; r = 0.397, P = 0.018). Posterior surface astigmatism and lens astigmatism were not age-dependent. Presence of GRIN did not alter significantly the magnitude or axis of the lens astigmatism. The astigmatism of GRIN lens and lens with homogeneous refractive index correlated with anterior lens surface astigmatism (GRIN, P = 3.9E - 6, r = 0.693; equivalent refractive index lens, P = 4.1E - 4, r = 0.565). The astigmatic angle of posterior surface, GRIN lens, and homogeneous refractive index lens did not change significantly with age. The axis of lens astigmatism is close to the astigmatic axis of the anterior lens surface. Age-related changes in lens astigmatism appear to be related to changes in the anterior lens astigmatism. The influence of the GRIN on lens astigmatism and the astigmatic axis is minor.

Modeling of Slot Waveguide Sensors Based on Polymeric Materials

PubMed Central

Bettotti, Paolo; Pitanti, Alessandro; Rigo, Eveline; De Leonardis, Francesco; Passaro, Vittorio M. N.; Pavesi, Lorenzo

2011-01-01

Slot waveguides are very promising for optical sensing applications because of their peculiar spatial mode profile. In this paper we have carried out a detailed analysis of mode confinement properties in slot waveguides realized in very low refractive index materials. We show that the sensitivity of a slot waveguide is not directly related to the refractive index contrast of high and low materials forming the waveguide. Thus, a careful design of the structures allows the realization of high sensitivity devices even in very low refractive index materials (e.g., polymers) to be achieved. Advantages of low index dielectrics in terms of cost, functionalization and ease of fabrication are discussed while keeping both CMOS compatibility and integrable design schemes. Finally, applications of low index slot waveguides as substitute of bulky fiber capillary sensors or in ring resonator architectures are addressed. Theoretical results of this work are relevant to well established polymer technologies. PMID:22164020

Temperature-dependent refractive index measurements of L-BBH2 glass for the Subaru CHARIS integral field spectrograph

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Leviton, Douglas B.; Miller, Kevin H.; Quijada, Manuel A.; Groff, Tyler D.

2015-09-01

Using the Cryogenic High Accuracy Refraction Measuring System (CHARMS) at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, we have made the first cryogenic measurements of absolute refractive index for Ohara L-BBH2 glass to enable the design of a prism for the Coronagraphic High Angular Resolution Imaging Spectrograph (CHARIS) at the Subaru telescope. L-BBH2 is employed in CHARIS's prism design for improving the spectrograph's dispersion uniformity. Index measurements were made at temperatures from 110 to 305 K at wavelengths from 0.46 to 3.16 μm. We report absolute refractive index (n), dispersion (dn/dλ), and thermo-optic coefficient (dn/dT) for this material along with estimated single measurement uncertainties as a function of wavelength and temperature. We provide temperature-dependent Sellmeier coefficients based on our data to allow accurate interpolation of index to other wavelengths and temperatures within applicable ranges. This paper also speaks of the challenges in measuring index for a material which is not available in sufficient thickness to fabricate a typical prism for measurement in CHARMS, the tailoring of the index prism design that allowed these index measurements to be made, and the remarkable results obtained from that prism for this practical infrared material.

Temperature-Dependent Refractive Index Measurements of L-BBH2 Glass for the Subaru CHARIS Integral Field Spectrograph

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leviton, Douglas B.; Miller, Kevin H.; Quijada, Manuel A.; Groff, Tyler D.

2015-01-01

Using the Cryogenic High Accuracy Refraction Measuring System (CHARMS) at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, we have made the first cryogenic measurements of absolute refractive index for Ohara L-BBH2 glass to enable the design of a prism for the Coronagraphic High Angular Resolution Imaging Spectrograph (CHARIS) at the Subaru telescope. L-BBH2 is employed in CHARIS's prism design for improving the spectrograph's dispersion uniformity. Index measurements were made at temperatures from 110 to 305 K at wavelengths from 0.46 to 3.16 micron. We report absolute refractive index (n), dispersion (dn/d(lambda), and thermo-optic coefficient (dn/dT) for this material along with estimated single measurement uncertainties as a function of wavelength and temperature. We provide temperature-dependent Sellmeier coefficients based on our data to allow accurate interpolation of index to other wavelengths and temperatures within applicable ranges. This paper also speaks of the challenges in measuring index for a material which is not available in sufficient thickness to fabricate a typical prism for measurement in CHARMS, the tailoring of the index prism design that allowed these index measurements to be made, and the remarkable results obtained from that prism for this practical infrared material.

Temperature and composition dependence of the refractive indices of the 2-chloroethanol + 2-methoxyethanol binary mixtures.

PubMed

Cocchi, Marina; Manfredini, Matteo; Marchetti, Andrea; Pigani, Laura; Seeber, Renato; Tassi, Lorenzo; Ulrici, Alessandro; Vignali, Moris; Zanardi, Chiara; Zannini, Paolo

2002-03-01

Measurements of the refractive index n for the binary mixtures 2-chloroethanol + 2-methoxyethanol in the 0 < or = t/degree C < or = 70 temperature range have been carried out with the purpose of checking the capability of empirical models to express physical quantity as a function of temperature and volume fraction, both separately and together, i.e., in a two independent variables expression. Furthermore, the experimental data have been used to calculate excess properties such as the excess refractive index, the excess molar refraction, and the excess Kirkwood parameter delta g over the whole composition range. The quantities obtained have been discussed and interpreted in terms of the type and nature of the specific intermolecular interactions between the components.

Maximal refraction and superluminal propagation in a gaseous nanolayer.

PubMed

Keaveney, J; Hughes, I G; Sargsyan, A; Sarkisyan, D; Adams, C S

2012-12-07

We present an experimental measurement of the refractive index of high density Rb vapor in a gaseous atomic nanolayer. We use heterodyne interferometry to measure the relative phase shift between two copropagating laser beams as a function of the laser detuning and infer a peak index n=1.26±0.02, close to the theoretical maximum of 1.31. The large index has a concomitant large index gradient creating a region with steep anomalous dispersion where a subnanosecond optical pulse is advanced by >100 ps over a propagation distance of 390 nm, corresponding to a group index n(g)=-(1.0±0.1)×10(5), the largest negative group index measured to date.

Refractive index sensor based on the leaky radiation of a microfiber.

PubMed

Gao, F; Liu, H; Sheng, C; Zhu, C; Zhu, S N

2014-05-19

In this work we present a refractive index sensor based on the leaky radiation of a microfiber. The 5.3um diameter microfiber is fabricated by drawing a commercial optical fiber. When the microfiber is immersed into a liquid with larger refractive index than the effective index of fiber mode, the light will leak out through the leaky radiation process. The variation of refractive index of liquid can be monitored by measuring radiation angle of light. The refractive index sensitivity can be over 400 degree/RIU in theory. In the experiment, the variation value 0.001 of refractive index of liquid around this microfiber can be detected through this technique. This work provides a simple and sensitive method for refractive index sensing application.

High refractive index and temperature sensitivity LPGs for high temperature operation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nascimento, I. M.; Gouveia, C.; Jana, Surnimal; Bera, Susanta; Baptista, J. M.; Moreira, Paulo; Biwas, Palas; Bandyopadhyay, Somnath; Jorge, Pedro A. S.

2013-11-01

A fiber optic sensor for high sensitivity refractive index and temperature measurement able to withstand temperature up to 450 °C is reported. Two identical LPG gratings were fabricated, whereas one was coated with a high refractive index (~1.78) sol-gel thin film in order to increase its sensitivity to the external refractive index. The two sensors were characterized and compared in refractive index and temperature. Sensitivities of 1063 nm/RIU (1.338 - 1.348) and 260 pm/°C were achieved for refractive index and temperature, respectively.

Cryogenic Temperature-dependent Refractive Index Measurements of N-BK7, BaLKN3, and SF15 for NOTES PDI

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frey, Bradley J.; Leviton, Douglas F.; Madison, Timothy J.

2007-01-01

In order to enable high quality lens designs using N-BK7, BaLKN3, and SF15 at cryogenic temperatures, we have measured the absolute refractive index of prisms of these three materials using the Cryogenic, High-Accuracy Refraction Measuring System (CHARMS) at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, as a function of both wavelength and temperature. For N-BK7, we report absolute refractive index and thermo-optic coefficient (dn/dT) at temperatures ranging from 50 to 300 K at wavelengths from 0.45 to 2.7 micrometers; for BaLKN3 we cover temperatures ranging from 40 to 300 K and wavelengths from 0.4 to 2.6 micrometers; for SF15 we cover temperatures ranging from 50 to 300 K and wavelengths from 0.45 to 2.6 micrometers. We compare our measurements with others in the literature and provide temperature-dependent Sellmeier coefficients based on our data to allow accurate interpolation of index to other wavelengths and temperatures. While we generally find good agreement (plus or minus 2 x 10(exp -4) for N-BK7, less than 1 x 10(exp -4) for the other materials) at room temperature between our measured values and those provided by the vendor, there is some variation between the datasheets provided with the prisms we measured and the catalog values published by the vendor. This underlines the importance of measuring the absolute refractive index of the material when precise knowledge of the refractive index is required.

Improving axial resolution in confocal microscopy with new high refractive index mounting media.

PubMed

Fouquet, Coralie; Gilles, Jean-François; Heck, Nicolas; Dos Santos, Marc; Schwartzmann, Richard; Cannaya, Vidjeacoumary; Morel, Marie-Pierre; Davidson, Robert Stephen; Trembleau, Alain; Bolte, Susanne

2015-01-01

Resolution, high signal intensity and elevated signal to noise ratio (SNR) are key issues for biologists who aim at studying the localisation of biological structures at the cellular and subcellular levels using confocal microscopy. The resolution required to separate sub-cellular biological structures is often near to the resolving power of the microscope. When optimally used, confocal microscopes may reach resolutions of 180 nm laterally and 500 nm axially, however, axial resolution in depth is often impaired by spherical aberration that may occur due to refractive index mismatches. Spherical aberration results in broadening of the point-spread function (PSF), a decrease in peak signal intensity when imaging in depth and a focal shift that leads to the distortion of the image along the z-axis and thus in a scaling error. In this study, we use the novel mounting medium CFM3 (Citifluor Ltd., UK) with a refractive index of 1.518 to minimize the effects of spherical aberration. This mounting medium is compatible with most common fluorochromes and fluorescent proteins. We compare its performance with established mounting media, harbouring refractive indices below 1.500, by estimating lateral and axial resolution with sub-resolution fluorescent beads. We show furthermore that the use of the high refractive index media renders the tissue transparent and improves considerably the axial resolution and imaging depth in immuno-labelled or fluorescent protein labelled fixed mouse brain tissue. We thus propose to use those novel high refractive index mounting media, whenever optimal axial resolution is required.

Denaturation process of laccase in various media by refractive index measurements.

PubMed

Saoudi, O; Ghaouar, N; Ben Salah, S; Othman, T

2017-09-01

In this work, we are interested in the denaturation process of a laccase from Tramates versicolor via the determination of the refractive index, the refractive index increment and the specific volume in various media. The measurements were carried out using an Abbe refractometer. We have shown that the refractive index increment values obtained from the slope of the variation of the refractive index vs. Concentration are outside the range refractive index increments of proteins. To correct the results, we have followed the theoretical predictions based on the knowledge of the protein refractive index from its amino acids composition. The denaturation process was studied by calculating the specific volume variation where its determination was related to the Gladstone-Dale and the Lorentz-Lorentz models.

Laser barometer

DOEpatents

Abercrombie, Kevin R.; Shiels, David; Rash, Tim

2001-02-06

A pressure measuring instrument that utilizes the change of the refractive index of a gas as a function of pressure and the coherent nature of a laser light to determine the barometric pressure within an environment. As the gas pressure in a closed environment varies, the index of refraction of the gas changes. The amount of change is a function of the gas pressure. By illuminating the gas with a laser light source, causing the wavelength of the light to change, pressure can be quantified by measuring the shift in fringes (alternating light and dark bands produced when coherent light is mixed) in an interferometer.

A computational method for the Helmholtz equation in unbounded domains based on the minimization of an integral functional

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ciraolo, Giulio, E-mail: g.ciraolo@math.unipa.it; Gargano, Francesco, E-mail: gargano@math.unipa.it; Sciacca, Vincenzo, E-mail: sciacca@math.unipa.it

2013-08-01

We study a new approach to the problem of transparent boundary conditions for the Helmholtz equation in unbounded domains. Our approach is based on the minimization of an integral functional arising from a volume integral formulation of the radiation condition. The index of refraction does not need to be constant at infinity and may have some angular dependency as well as perturbations. We prove analytical results on the convergence of the approximate solution. Numerical examples for different shapes of the artificial boundary and for non-constant indexes of refraction will be presented.

Cryogenic Temperature-Dependent Refractive Index Measurements of CaF2 and Infrasil 301

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frey, Bradley J.; Leviton, Douglas B.; Madison, TImothy J.

2007-01-01

In order to enable high quality lens design using calcium fluoride (CaF2) and Heraeus Infrasil 30 (Infrasil) at cryogenic temperatures, we have measured the absolute refractive index of prisms of these two materials using the Cryogenic, High-Accuracy Refraction Measuring System (CHARMS) at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, as a function of both wavelength and temperature. For CaF2, we report absolute refractive index and thermo-optic coefficient (dn/dT) at temperatures ranging from 25 to 300 K at wavelengths from 0.4 to 5.6 micrometers; for Infrasil we cover temperatures ranging from 35 to 300K and wavelengths from 0.4 to 3.6 micrometers. We investigate the interspecimen variability between measurements of two unrelated samples of CaF2, and we also compare our results for Infrasil to previous measurements fo Corning 7980 fused silica. Finally, we provide temperature-dependent Sellmeier coefficients based on our data to allow accurate interpolation of index to other wavelengths and temperatures and compare those results to other data found in the literature.

Patient age, refractive index of the corneal stroma, and outcomes of uneventful laser in situ keratomileusis.

PubMed

Patel, Sudi; Alió, Jorge L; Walewska, Anna; Amparo, Francisco; Artola, Alberto

2013-03-01

To determine the influence of age and the corneal stromal refractive index on the difference between the predicted and actual postoperative refractive error after laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) and whether the precision of outcomes could be improved by considering age and the refractive index. Vissum Instituto Oftalmologico de Alicante, Alicante, Spain. Case series. Flaps were created using a mechanical microkeratome. The stromal refractive index was measured using a VCH-1 refractometer after flap lifting. Refractive data were obtained 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively. Uneventful LASIK was performed in 133 eyes. The mean age, refractive index, and applied corrections were 33.4 years ± 9.49 (SD), 1.368 ± 0.006, and -2.43 ± 3.36 diopters (D), respectively. The difference between the predicted and actual postoperative refractive error = 2.315-0.021 age-1.106 refractive index (F = 3.647, r = 0.254, P=.029; n = 109) at 1 month and = 11.820-0.023 age-7.976 refractive index (F = 3.392, r = 0.261, P=.022, n = 106) at 3 months. A correlation between the actual and calculated postoperative refraction improved from r = -0.178 (P=.064; n = 75) to r = -0.418 (P<.001) after considering the true refractive index 6 months postoperatively. The predicted outcomes of LASIK can be improved by inputting the refractive index of the individual corneal stroma. Unexpected outcomes (>0.50 D) of LASIK could be avoided by considering patient age and the refractive index and by adjusting the applied correction accordingly. Copyright © 2012 ASCRS and ESCRS. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Tunable metamaterial-induced transparency with gate-controlled on-chip graphene metasurface.

PubMed

Chen, Zan Hui; Tao, Jin; Gu, Jia Hua; Li, Jian; Hu, Di; Tan, Qi Long; Zhang, Fengchun; Huang, Xu Guang

2016-12-12

We propose and numerically investigate a gate-controlled on-chip graphene metasurface consisting of a monolayer graphene sheet and silicon photonic crystal-like substrate, to achieve an electrically-tunable induced transparency. The operation mechanism of the induced transparency of the on-chip graphene metasurface is analyzed. The tunable optical properties with different gate-voltages and polarizations have been discussed. Additionally, the spectral feature of the on-chip graphene metasurface as a function of the refractive index of the local environment is also investigated. The result shows that the on-chip graphene metasurface as a refractive index sensor can achieve an overall figure of merit of 8.89 in infrared wavelength range. Our study suggests that the proposed structure is potentially attractive as optoelectronic modulators and refractive index sensors.

Negative index of refraction in a four-level system with magnetoelectric cross coupling and local field corrections

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Bello, F.

2011-07-15

This research focuses on a coherently driven four-level atomic medium with the aim of inducing a negative index of refraction while taking into consideration local field corrections as well as magnetoelectric cross coupling (i.e.,chirality) within the material's response functions. Two control fields are used to render the medium transparent for a probe field which simultaneously couples to an electric and a magnetic dipole transition, thus allowing one to test the permittivity and permeability of the material at the same time. Numerical simulations show that a negative index of refraction with low absorption can be obtained for a range of probemore » detunings while depending on number density and the ratio between the intensities of the control fields.« less

Temperature-insensitive refractive index sensing by use of micro Fabry-Pérot cavity based on simplified hollow-core photonic crystal fiber.

PubMed

Wang, Ying; Wang, D N; Liao, C R; Hu, Tianyi; Guo, Jiangtao; Wei, Huifeng

2013-02-01

A temperature-insensitive micro Fabry-Pérot (FP) cavity based on simplified hollow-core (SHC) photonic crystal fiber (PCF) is demonstrated. Such a device is fabricated by splicing a section of SHC PCF with single mode fibers at both cleaved ends. An extremely low temperature sensitivity of ~0.273 pm/°C is obtained between room temperature and 900°C. By drilling vertical micro-channels using a femtosecond laser, the micro FP cavity can be filled with liquids and functions as a sensitive refractometer and the refractive index sensitivity obtained is ~851.3 nm/RIU (refractive index unit), which indicates an ultra low temperature cross-sensitivity of ~3.2×10(-7) RIU/°C.

High refractive index Fresnel lens on a fiber fabricated by nanoimprint lithography for immersion applications.

PubMed

Koshelev, Alexander; Calafiore, Giuseppe; Piña-Hernandez, Carlos; Allen, Frances I; Dhuey, Scott; Sassolini, Simone; Wong, Edward; Lum, Paul; Munechika, Keiko; Cabrini, Stefano

2016-08-01

In this Letter, we present a Fresnel lens fabricated on the end of an optical fiber. The lens is fabricated using nanoimprint lithography of a functional high refractive index material, which is suitable for mass production. The main advantage of the presented Fresnel lens compared to a conventional fiber lens is its high refractive index (n=1.68), which enables efficient light focusing even inside other media, such as water or an adhesive. Measurement of the lens performance in an immersion liquid (n=1.51) shows a near diffraction limited focal spot of 810 nm in diameter at the 1/e² intensity level for a wavelength of 660 nm. Applications of such fiber lenses include integrated optics, optical trapping, and fiber probes.

Gradients of refractive index in the crystalline lens and transient changes in refraction among patients with diabetes.

PubMed

Charman, W Neil; Adnan; Atchison, David A

2012-12-01

Transient hyperopic refractive shifts occur on a timescale of weeks in some patients after initiation of therapy for hyperglycemia, and are usually followed by recovery to the original refraction. Possible lenticular origin of these changes is considered in terms of a paraxial gradient index model. Assuming that the lens thickness and curvatures remain unchanged, as observed in practice, it appears possible to account for initial hyperopic refractive shifts of up to a few diopters by reduction in refractive index near the lens center and alteration in the rate of change between center and surface, so that most of the index change occurs closer to the lens surface. Restoration of the original refraction depends on further change in the refractive index distribution with more gradual changes in refractive index from the lens center to its surface. Modeling limitations are discussed.

Gradients of refractive index in the crystalline lens and transient changes in refraction among patients with diabetes

PubMed Central

Charman, W. Neil; Adnan; Atchison, David A.

2012-01-01

Transient hyperopic refractive shifts occur on a timescale of weeks in some patients after initiation of therapy for hyperglycemia, and are usually followed by recovery to the original refraction. Possible lenticular origin of these changes is considered in terms of a paraxial gradient index model. Assuming that the lens thickness and curvatures remain unchanged, as observed in practice, it appears possible to account for initial hyperopic refractive shifts of up to a few diopters by reduction in refractive index near the lens center and alteration in the rate of change between center and surface, so that most of the index change occurs closer to the lens surface. Restoration of the original refraction depends on further change in the refractive index distribution with more gradual changes in refractive index from the lens center to its surface. Modeling limitations are discussed. PMID:23243557

Optofluidic two-dimensional grating volume refractive index sensor.

PubMed

Sarkar, Anirban; Shivakiran Bhaktha, B N; Khastgir, Sugata Pratik

2016-09-10

We present an optofluidic reservoir with a two-dimensional grating for a lab-on-a-chip volume refractive index sensor. The observed diffraction pattern from the device resembles the analytically obtained fringe pattern. The change in the diffraction pattern has been monitored in the far-field for fluids with different refractive indices. Reliable measurements of refractive index variations, with an accuracy of 6×10^-3 refractive index units, for different fluids establishes the optofluidic device as a potential on-chip tool for monitoring dynamic refractive index changes.

Measurement of refractive index profile of non-symmetric, complex silica preforms with high refractive index differences

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Probostova, Jana; Slanicka, Jiri; Mrazek, Jan; Podrazky, Ondrej; Benda, Adam; Peterka, Pavel

2016-04-01

Refractive index profile measurement is a key instrument for characterization of optical properties of preforms, which are used for drawing of high-quality optical fibers. Common industrial optical preform analyzers have been designed for measurement of simple symmetric structures such as step-index or graded-index preforms with refractive index close to the silica (n=1.457 at 633 nm). However, these conditions are usually far from more complex structures used in fiber lasers or in fiber sensor area. Preforms for the drawing of advanced optical fibers, such as Bragg, microstructure or photonic crystal fibers, are usually constituted from stacks with non-symmetric internal structure or composed of alternating layers with high refractive index contrasts. In this paper we present comparison of refractive index profile measurements of simple as well as complex structures with high refractive index differences simulating the Bragg structures. Commercial Photon Kinetics 2600 preform analyzer was used for the refractive index profile measurements. A set of concentrically arranged silica tubes was welded to form a complex preforms. Free space between the tubes was filled by immersion with varying refractive indices to simulate the Bragg structure. Up to three tubes were used for the analysis and the refractive indices of immersion were changed from 1.4 to 1.5. When refractive index of immersion was independently measured the structure of preform was defined. Profiles of these "known" structures were compared to measured data processed by originally proposed algorithm. The work provides an extension of issues of refractive index profile measurements in non-symmetric complex silica structures by a commercial preform analyzer and proposes more convenient methods of numeric data processing.

On the saturation of the refractive index structure function. II - Influence of the correlation length on astronomical 'seeing'

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Venkatakrishnan, P.

1987-01-01

A physical length scale in the wavefront corresponding to the parameter (r sub 0) characterizing the loss in detail in a long exposure image is identified, and the influence of the correlation scale of turbulence as r sub 0 approaches this scale is shown. Allowing for the effect of 2-point correlations in the fluctuations of the refractive index, Venkatakrishnan and Chatterjee (1987) proposed a modified law for the phase structure function. It is suggested that the departure of the phase structure function from the 5/3 power law for length scales in the wavefront approaching the correlation scale of turbulence may lead to better 'seeing' at longer wavelengths.

Refractive index measurements in absorbing media with white light spectral interferometry.

PubMed

Arosa, Yago; Lago, Elena López; de la Fuente, Raúl

2018-03-19

White light spectral interferometry is applied to measure the refractive index in absorbing liquids in the spectral range of 400-1000 nm. We analyze the influence of absorption on the visibility of interferometric fringes and, accordingly, on the measurement of the refractive index. Further, we show that the refractive index in the absorption band can be retrieved by a two-step process. The procedure requires the use of two samples of different thickness, the thicker one to retrieve the refractive index in the transparent region and the thinnest to obtain the data in the absorption region. First, the refractive index values are retrieved with good accuracy in the transparent region of the material for 1-mm-thick samples. Second, these refractive index values serve also to precisely calculate the thickness of a thinner sample (~150 µm) since the accuracy of the methods depends strongly on the thickness of the sample. Finally, the refractive index is recovered for the entire spectral range.

3-D photo-patterning of refractive index structures in photosensitive thin film materials

DOEpatents

Potter, Jr., Barrett George; Potter, Kelly Simmons

2002-01-01

A method of making a three-dimensional refractive index structure in a photosensitive material using photo-patterning. The wavelengths at which a photosensitive material exhibits a change in refractive index upon exposure to optical radiation is first determined and then a portion of the surface of the photosensitive material is optically irradiated at a wavelength at which the photosensitive material exhibits a change in refractive index using a designed illumination system to produce a three-dimensional refractive index structure. The illumination system can be a micro-lenslet array, a macroscopic refractive lens array, or a binary optic phase mask. The method is a single-step, direct-write procedure to produce a designed refractive index structure.

Determination of the refractive index of microparticles by utilizing light dispersion properties of the particle and an immersion liquid.

PubMed

Niskanen, I; Räty, J; Peiponen, K E

2013-10-15

The knowledge of the refractive index of a particle is important in sensing and imaging applications, e.g., in biology, medicine and process industry. The refractive index of tiny solid particles such as microsize particles can be determined by the so-called liquid immersion technique. This study deals with three different types of interrogation methods to get the refractive index of a particle in a liquid matrix. These methods utilize thermo-optical properties and wavelength-dependent refractive index of the particle and the immersion liquids, as well as, the classical method using a set of in advance prepared set of immersion liquids with different refractive indices. The emphasis is on a method to get especially the wavelength-dependent refractive index of microparticles and exploiting different wavelength-dependences of immersion liquid and a solid particle because identification of a particle is more reliable if the refractive index of the particle is known at several wavelengths. In this study glycerol-water mixtures served as immersion liquids to obtain the refractive index of CaF2 at several discrete wavelengths in the spectral range 200-500 nm. The idea is to find the maximum value of light transmission of suspension by scanning the wavelength of a commercial spectrophotometer. The light dispersion-based method is suggested as a relatively easy, economic and fast method to determine the refractive index of a particle by a spectrophotometer at several wavelengths of light. The accuracy of the detection of the refractive index is suggested to be better than ± 0.005 refractive index units. © 2013 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Temperature-dependent Refractive Index of Silicon and Germanium

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frey, Bradley J.; Leviton, Douglas B.; Madison, Timothy J.

2006-01-01

Silicon and germanium are perhaps the two most well-understood semiconductor materials in the context of solid state device technologies and more recently micromachining and nanotechnology. Meanwhile, these two materials are also important in the field of infrared lens design. Optical instruments designed for the wavelength range where these two materials are transmissive achieve best performance when cooled to cryogenic temperatures to enhance signal from the scene over instrument background radiation. In order to enable high quality lens designs using silicon and germanium at cryogenic temperatures, we have measured the absolute refractive index of multiple prisms of these two materials using the Cryogenic, High-Accuracy Refraction Measuring System (CHARMS) at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center, as a function of both wavelength and temperature. For silicon, we report absolute refractive index and thermo-optic coefficient (dn/dT) at temperatures ranging from 20 to 300 K at wavelengths from 1.1 to 5.6 pin, while for germanium, we cover temperatures ranging from 20 to 300 K and wavelengths from 1.9 to 5.5 microns. We compare our measurements with others in the literature and provide temperature-dependent Sellmeier coefficients based on our data to allow accurate interpolation of index to other wavelengths and temperatures. Citing the wide variety of values for the refractive indices of these two materials found in the literature, we reiterate the importance of measuring the refractive index of a sample from the same batch of raw material from which final optical components are cut when absolute accuracy greater than k5 x 10" is desired.

Effects of porous films on the light reflectivity of pigmentary titanium dioxide particles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liang, Yong; Qiao, Bing; Wang, Tig-Jie; Gao, Han; Yu, Keyi

2016-11-01

The light reflectivity of the film-coated titanium dioxide particles (TiO2) as a function of the film refractive index was derived and calculated using a plane film model. For the refractive index in the range of 1.00-2.15, the lower the film refractive index is, the higher is the light reflectivity of the film. It is inferred that the lower apparent refractive index of the porous film resulted in the higher reflectivity of light, i.e., the higher hiding power of the titanium dioxide particles. A dense film coating on TiO2 particles with different types of oxides, i.e., SiO2, Al2O3, MgO, ZnO, ZrO2, TiO2, corresponding to different refractive indices of the film from 1.46 to 2.50, was achieved, and the effects of refractive index on the hiding power from the model prediction were confirmed. Porous film coating of TiO2 particles was achieved by adding the organic template agent triethanolamine (TEA). The hiding power of the coated TiO2 particles was increased from 88.3 to 90.8 by adding the TEA template to the film coating (5-20 wt%). In other words, the amount of titanium dioxide needed was reduced by approximately 10% without a change in the hiding power. It is concluded that the film structure coated on TiO2 particle surface affects the light reflectivity significantly, namely, the porous film exhibits excellent performance for pigmentary titanium dioxide particles with high hiding power.

Improving Axial Resolution in Confocal Microscopy with New High Refractive Index Mounting Media

PubMed Central

Fouquet, Coralie; Gilles, Jean-François; Heck, Nicolas; Dos Santos, Marc; Schwartzmann, Richard; Cannaya, Vidjeacoumary; Morel, Marie-Pierre; Davidson, Robert Stephen; Trembleau, Alain; Bolte, Susanne

2015-01-01

Resolution, high signal intensity and elevated signal to noise ratio (SNR) are key issues for biologists who aim at studying the localisation of biological structures at the cellular and subcellular levels using confocal microscopy. The resolution required to separate sub-cellular biological structures is often near to the resolving power of the microscope. When optimally used, confocal microscopes may reach resolutions of 180 nm laterally and 500 nm axially, however, axial resolution in depth is often impaired by spherical aberration that may occur due to refractive index mismatches. Spherical aberration results in broadening of the point-spread function (PSF), a decrease in peak signal intensity when imaging in depth and a focal shift that leads to the distortion of the image along the z-axis and thus in a scaling error. In this study, we use the novel mounting medium CFM3 (Citifluor Ltd., UK) with a refractive index of 1.518 to minimize the effects of spherical aberration. This mounting medium is compatible with most common fluorochromes and fluorescent proteins. We compare its performance with established mounting media, harbouring refractive indices below 1.500, by estimating lateral and axial resolution with sub-resolution fluorescent beads. We show furthermore that the use of the high refractive index media renders the tissue transparent and improves considerably the axial resolution and imaging depth in immuno-labelled or fluorescent protein labelled fixed mouse brain tissue. We thus propose to use those novel high refractive index mounting media, whenever optimal axial resolution is required. PMID:25822785

Effect of embedded silver nanoparticles on refractive index of soda lime glass

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sonal, Sharma, Annu; Aggarwal, Sanjeev

2018-05-01

Silver glass nanocomposites were prepared by exposing silver doped soda lime glass slides obtained via ion-exchange reaction to a beam of 200 keV Argon ions (Ar+) at an off normal angle of 400 with doses of 5x1015 ions cm-2 and 1x1016 ions cm-2. These nanocomposites were further characterized using UV-visible spectrophotometer so as to study their transmission and reflection behavior and compute their refractive index and real and imaginary parts of dielectric function.

Peptide Functionalized Gold Nanorods for the Sensitive Detection of a Cardiac Biomarker Using Plasmonic Paper Devices (Postprint)

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-11-10

valid OMB control number. PLEASE DO NOT RETURN YOUR FORM TO THE ABOVE ADDRESS. 1. REPORT DATE (DD-MM-YY) 2. REPORT TYPE 3 . DATES COVERED (From...refractive index difference on the order of 3 × 10−4 refractive index units (RIU)), probe the conformational changes of individual biomacromolecules, detect...natural antibodies and short peptides, as BREs. We demonstrate that pep - tides provide a significantly higher sensitivity and lower limit of detection

Peptide Functionalized Gold Nanorods for the Sensitive Detection of a Cardiac Biomarker Using Plasmonic Paper Devices (Postprint)

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-11-10

currently valid OMB control number. PLEASE DO NOT RETURN YOUR FORM TO THE ABOVE ADDRESS. 1. REPORT DATE (DD-MM-YY) 2. REPORT TYPE 3 . DATES COVERED...refractive index difference on the order of 3 × 10−4 refractive index units (RIU)), probe the conformational changes of individual biomacromolecules...natural antibodies and short peptides, as BREs. We demonstrate that pep - tides provide a significantly higher sensitivity and lower limit of detection

Phase Modulator with Terahertz Optical Bandwidth Formed by Multi-Layered Dielectric Stack

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Keys, Andrew S. (Inventor); Fork, Richard L. (Inventor)

2005-01-01

An optical phase modulator includes a bandpass multilayer stack, formed by a plurality of dielectric layers, preferably of GaAs and AlAs, and having a transmission function related to the refractive index of the layers of the stack, for receiving an optical input signal to be phase modulated. A phase modulator device produces a nonmechanical change in the refractive index of each layer of the stack by, e.g., the injection of free carrier, to provide shifting of the transmission function so as to produce phase modulation of the optical input signal and to thereby produce a phase modulated output signal.

Compositional dependence of optical band gap and refractive index in lead and bismuth borate glasses

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mallur, Saisudha B.; Czarnecki, Tyler; Adhikari, Ashish

2015-08-15

Highlights: • Refractive indices increase with increasing PbO/Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3} content. • Optical band gap arises due to direct forbidden transition. • Optical band gaps decrease with increasing PbO/Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3} content. • New empirical relation between the optical band gap and the refractive index. - Abstract: We prepared a series of lead and bismuth borate glasses by varying PbO/Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3} content and studied refractive index and optical band gap as a function of glass composition. Refractive indices were measured very accurately using a Brewster’s angle set up while the optical band gaps were determined by analyzing the opticalmore » absorption edge using the Mott–Davis model. Using the Lorentz–Lorentz method and the effective medium theory, we calculated the refractive indices and then compared them with the measured values. Bismuth borate glasses show better agreement between the calculated values of the refractive index and experimental values. We used a differential method based on Mott–Davis model to obtain the type of transition and optical band gap (E{sub opt}) which in turn was compared with the value of E{sub opt} obtained using the extinction coefficient. Our analysis shows that in both lead and bismuth borate glasses, the optical band gap arises due to direct forbidden transition. With increasing PbO/Bi{sub 2}O{sub 3} content, the absorption edge shifts toward longer wavelengths and the optical band gap decreases. This behavior can be explained in terms of changes to the Pb−O/Bi−O chemical bonds with glass composition. We obtained a new empirical relation between the optical band gap and the refractive index which can be used to accurately determine the electronic oxide polarizability in lead and bismuth oxide glasses.« less

Global scale variability of the mineral dust long-wave refractive index: a new dataset of in situ measurements for climate modeling and remote sensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Di Biagio, Claudia; Formenti, Paola; Balkanski, Yves; Caponi, Lorenzo; Cazaunau, Mathieu; Pangui, Edouard; Journet, Emilie; Nowak, Sophie; Caquineau, Sandrine; Andreae, Meinrat O.; Kandler, Konrad; Saeed, Thuraya; Piketh, Stuart; Seibert, David; Williams, Earle; Doussin, Jean-François

2017-02-01

Modeling the interaction of dust with long-wave (LW) radiation is still a challenge because of the scarcity of information on the complex refractive index of dust from different source regions. In particular, little is known about the variability of the refractive index as a function of the dust mineralogical composition, which depends on the specific emission source, and its size distribution, which is modified during transport. As a consequence, to date, climate models and remote sensing retrievals generally use a spatially invariant and time-constant value for the dust LW refractive index. In this paper, the variability of the mineral dust LW refractive index as a function of its mineralogical composition and size distribution is explored by in situ measurements in a large smog chamber. Mineral dust aerosols were generated from 19 natural soils from 8 regions: northern Africa, the Sahel, eastern Africa and the Middle East, eastern Asia, North and South America, southern Africa, and Australia. Soil samples were selected from a total of 137 available samples in order to represent the diversity of sources from arid and semi-arid areas worldwide and to account for the heterogeneity of the soil composition at the global scale. Aerosol samples generated from soils were re-suspended in the chamber, where their LW extinction spectra (3-15 µm), size distribution, and mineralogical composition were measured. The generated aerosol exhibits a realistic size distribution and mineralogy, including both the sub- and super-micron fractions, and represents in typical atmospheric proportions the main LW-active minerals, such as clays, quartz, and calcite. The complex refractive index of the aerosol is obtained by an optical inversion based upon the measured extinction spectrum and size distribution. Results from the present study show that the imaginary LW refractive index (k) of dust varies greatly both in magnitude and spectral shape from sample to sample, reflecting the differences in particle composition. In the 3-15 µm spectral range, k is between ˜ 0.001 and 0.92. The strength of the dust absorption at ˜ 7 and 11.4 µm depends on the amount of calcite within the samples, while the absorption between 8 and 14 µm is determined by the relative abundance of quartz and clays. The imaginary part (k) is observed to vary both from region to region and for varying sources within the same region. Conversely, for the real part (n), which is in the range 0.84-1.94, values are observed to agree for all dust samples across most of the spectrum within the error bars. This implies that while a constant n can be probably assumed for dust from different sources, a varying k should be used both at the global and the regional scale. A linear relationship between the magnitude of the imaginary refractive index at 7.0, 9.2, and 11.4 µm and the mass concentration of calcite and quartz absorbing at these wavelengths was found. We suggest that this may lead to predictive rules to estimate the LW refractive index of dust in specific bands based on an assumed or predicted mineralogical composition, or conversely, to estimate the dust composition from measurements of the LW extinction at specific wavebands. Based on the results of the present study, we recommend that climate models and remote sensing instruments operating at infrared wavelengths, such as IASI (infrared atmospheric sounder interferometer), use regionally dependent refractive indices rather than generic values. Our observations also suggest that the refractive index of dust in the LW does not change as a result of the loss of coarse particles by gravitational settling, so that constant values of n and k could be assumed close to sources and following transport. The whole dataset of the dust complex refractive indices presented in this paper is made available to the scientific community in the Supplement.

Refractive-index measurement and inverse correction using optical coherence tomography.

PubMed

Stritzel, Jenny; Rahlves, Maik; Roth, Bernhard

2015-12-01

We describe a novel technique for determination of the refractive index of hard biological tissue as well as nonopaque technical samples based on optical coherence tomography (OCT). Our method relies on an inverse refractive-index correction (I-RIC), which matches a measured feature geometry distorted due to refractive-index boundaries to its real geometry. For known feature geometry, the refractive index can be determined with high precision from the best match between the distorted and corrected images. We provide experimental data for refractive-index measurements on a polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) and on an ex vivo porcine cranial-bone, which are compared to reference measurements and previously published data. Our method is potentially capable of in vivo measurements on rigid biological tissue such as bone as, for example, is required to improve guidance in robot-aided surgical interventions and also for retrieving complex refractive-index profiles of compound materials.

Nondestructive measurement of the refractive index distribution of a glass molded lens by two-wavelength wavefronts.

PubMed

Sugimoto, Tomohiro

2016-10-01

This paper presents a nondestructive and non-exact-index-matching method for measuring the refractive index distribution of a glass molded lens with high refractivity. The method measures two-wavelength wavefronts of a test lens immersed in a liquid with a refractive index dispersion different from that of the test lens and calculates the refractive index distribution by eliminating the refractive index distribution error caused by the shape error of the test lens. The estimated uncertainties of the refractive index distributions of test lenses with n_d≈1.77 and n_d≈1.85 were 1.9×10^-5  RMS and 2.4×10^-5  RMS, respectively. I validated the proposed method by evaluating the agreement between the estimated uncertainties and experimental values.

Complex refractive index of Martian dust - Mariner 9 ultraviolet observations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pang, K.; Ajello, J. M.; Hord, C. W.; Egan, W. G.

1976-01-01

Mariner 9 ultraviolet spectrometer observations of the 1971 dust clouds obscuring the surface of Mars have been analyzed by matching the observed dust phase function with Mie scattering calculations for size distributions of homogeneous and isotropic material. Preliminary results indicate an effective particle radius of not less than 0.2. The real component of the index of refraction is not less than 1.8 at both 268 and 305 nm; corresponding values for the imagery component are 0.02 and 0.01. These values are consistent with those found by Mead (1970) for the visible and near-visible wavelengths. The refractive index and the absorption coefficient increase rapidly with decreasing wavelength in going from the visible to the ultraviolet, indicating the presence of an ultraviolet absorption band which may shield organisms from ultraviolet irradiation.

Refractive Index Seen by a Probe Beam Interacting with a Laser-Plasma System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Turnbull, D.; Goyon, C.; Kemp, G. E.; Pollock, B. B.; Mariscal, D.; Divol, L.; Ross, J. S.; Patankar, S.; Moody, J. D.; Michel, P.

2017-01-01

We report the first complete set of measurements of a laser-plasma optical system's refractive index, as seen by a second probe laser beam, as a function of the relative wavelength shift between the two laser beams. Both the imaginary and real refractive index components are found to be in good agreement with linear theory using plasma parameters measured by optical Thomson scattering and interferometry; the former is in contrast to previous work and has implications for crossed-beam energy transfer in indirect-drive inertial confinement fusion, and the latter is measured for the first time. The data include the first demonstration of a laser-plasma polarizer with 85 %- 87 % extinction for the particular laser and plasma parameters used in this experiment, complementing the existing suite of high-power, tunable, and ultrafast plasma-based photonic devices.

Refractive Index Seen by a Probe Beam Interacting with a Laser-Plasma System.

PubMed

Turnbull, D; Goyon, C; Kemp, G E; Pollock, B B; Mariscal, D; Divol, L; Ross, J S; Patankar, S; Moody, J D; Michel, P

2017-01-06

We report the first complete set of measurements of a laser-plasma optical system's refractive index, as seen by a second probe laser beam, as a function of the relative wavelength shift between the two laser beams. Both the imaginary and real refractive index components are found to be in good agreement with linear theory using plasma parameters measured by optical Thomson scattering and interferometry; the former is in contrast to previous work and has implications for crossed-beam energy transfer in indirect-drive inertial confinement fusion, and the latter is measured for the first time. The data include the first demonstration of a laser-plasma polarizer with 85%-87% extinction for the particular laser and plasma parameters used in this experiment, complementing the existing suite of high-power, tunable, and ultrafast plasma-based photonic devices.

Imaging based refractometer for hyperspectral refractive index detection

DOEpatents

Baba, Justin S.; Boudreaux, Philip R.

2015-11-24

Refractometers for simultaneously measuring refractive index of a sample over a range of wavelengths of light include dispersive and focusing optical systems. An optical beam including the range of wavelengths is spectrally spread along a first axis and focused along a second axis so as to be incident to an interface between the sample and a prism at a range of angles of incidence including a critical angle for at least one wavelength. An imaging detector is situated to receive the spectrally spread and focused light from the interface and form an image corresponding to angle of incidence as a function of wavelength. One or more critical angles are identified and corresponding refractive indices are determined.

Two-dimensional interferometric characterization of laser-induced refractive index profiles in bulk Topas polymer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hessler, Steffen; Rosenberger, Manuel; Schmauss, Bernhard; Hellmann, Ralf

2018-01-01

In this paper we precisely determine laser-induced refractive index profiles created in cyclic olefin copolymer Topas 6017 employing a sophisticated phase shifting Mach-Zehnder interferometry approach. Beyond the usual one-dimensional modification depth measurement we highlight that for straight waveguide structures also a two-dimensional refractive index distribution can be directly obtained providing full information of a waveguide's exact cross section and its gradient refractive index contrast. Deployed as direct data input in optical waveguide simulation, the evaluated 2D refractive index profiles permit a detailed calculation of the waveguides' actual mode profiles. Furthermore, conventional one-dimensional interferometric measurements for refractive index depth profiles with varying total imposed laser fluence of a 248 nm KrF excimer laser are included to investigate the effect on refractive index modification depth. Maximum surface refractive index increase turns out to attain up to 1.86 ·10-3 enabling laser-written optical waveguide channels. Additionally, a comprehensive optical material characterization in terms of dispersion, thermo-optic coefficient and absorption measurement of unmodified and UV-modified Topas 6017 is carried out.

In-fiber refractive index sensor based on single eccentric hole-assisted dual-core fiber.

PubMed

Yang, Jing; Guan, Chunying; Tian, Peixuan; Yuan, Tingting; Zhu, Zheng; Li, Ping; Shi, Jinhui; Yang, Jun; Yuan, Libo

2017-11-01

We propose a novel and simple in-fiber refractive index sensor based on resonant coupling, constructed by a short section of single eccentric hole-assisted dual-core fiber (SEHADCF) spliced between two single-mode fibers. The coupling characteristics of the SEHADCF are calculated numerically. The strong resonant coupling occurs when the fundamental mode of the center core phase-matches to that of the suspended core in the air hole. The effective refractive index of the fundamental mode of the suspended core can be obviously changed by injecting solution into the air hole. The responses of the proposed devices to the refractive index and temperature are experimentally measured. The refractive index sensitivity is 627.5 nm/refractive index unit in the refractive index range of 1.335-1.385. The sensor without solution filling is insensitive to temperature in the range of 30-90°C. The proposed refractive index sensor has outstanding advantages, such as simple fabrication, good mechanical strength, and excellent microfluidic channel, and will be of importance in biological detection, chemical analysis, and environment monitoring.

Design of embedded system to determine liquid refractive index based on ultrasonic sensor using an ATMega328

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Radiyonoa, Y.; Surantoro, S.; Pujayanto, P.; Budiharti, R.; Respati, Y. S.; Saputro, D. E.

2018-05-01

The occurrence of the broken pencil shadow into a glass of water becomes an interesting matter to be learned. The students of senior high school still find difficulty in determining liquid refractive index. To overcome this problem, it needs to develop an experimental tool to determine liquid refractive index by utilizing the newest technology. It is expected to be useful for students. This study is aimed to (1) make the design of physics learning experimental tool determinant of a liquid refractive index assisted by microcontroller based on ultrasonic sensors ATMega328 (2) explain the working principle and experimental result of liquid refractive indexing instrument assisted with ATMega328 microcontroller based ultrasonic sensor. This research used the experimental method. The result of the research shows design of physics learning experimental tool determinant of a liquid refractive index assisted by microcontroller based on ultrasonic sensors ATMega328 that has relative counting mistake of 0.36% on the measurement of aquades liquid refractive index, relative mistake of 0.18% on the 5% NaCl measurement, 0.24% on 5% glucose, and relative mistake of 0.50% on the measurement of 5 % fructose liquid refractive index. It has been created a proper device to be used in determining liquid refractive index.

Spatial Frequency Multiplexing of Fiber-Optic Interferometric Refractive Index Sensors Based on Graded-Index Multimode Fibers

PubMed Central

Liu, Li; Gong, Yuan; Wu, Yu; Zhao, Tian; Wu, Hui-Juan; Rao, Yun-Jiang

2012-01-01

Fiber-optic interferometric sensors based on graded-index multimode fibers have very high refractive-index sensitivity, as we previously demonstrated. In this paper, spatial-frequency multiplexing of this type of fiber-optic refractive index sensors is investigated. It is estimated that multiplexing of more than 10 such sensors is possible. In the multiplexing scheme, one of the sensors is used to investigate the refractive index and temperature responses. The fast Fourier transform (FFT) of the combined reflective spectra is analyzed. The intensity of the FFT spectra is linearly related with the refractive index and is not sensitive to the temperature.

On the volume-dependence of the index of refraction from the viewpoint of the complex dielectric function and the Kramers-Kronig relation.

PubMed

Rocquefelte, Xavier; Jobic, Stéphane; Whangbo, Myung-Hwan

2006-02-16

How indices of refraction n(omega) of insulating solids are affected by the volume dilution of an optical entity and the mixing of different, noninteracting simple solid components was examined on the basis of the dielectric function epsilon(1)(omega) + iepsilon(2)(omega). For closely related insulating solids with an identical composition and the formula unit volume V, the relation [epsilon(1)(omega) - 1]V = constant was found by combining the relation epsilon(2)(omega)V = constant with the Kramers-Kronig relation. This relation becomes [n(2)(omega) - 1]V = constant for the index of refraction n(omega) determined for the incident light with energy less than the band gap (i.e., h omega < E(g)). For a narrow range of change in the formula unit volume, the latter relation is well approximated by a linear relation between n and 1/V.

Fermat's principle and the formal equivalence of local light-ray rotation and refraction at the interface between homogeneous media with a complex refractive index ratio.

PubMed

Sundar, Bhuvanesh; Hamilton, Alasdair C; Courtial, Johannes

2009-02-01

We derive a formal description of local light-ray rotation in terms of complex refractive indices. We show that Fermat's principle holds, and we derive an extended Snell's law. The change in the angle of a light ray with respect to the normal of a refractive index interface is described by the modulus of the refractive index ratio; the rotation around the interface normal is described by the argument of the refractive index ratio.

Terahertz metasurfaces with a high refractive index enhanced by the strong nearest neighbor coupling.

PubMed

Tan, Siyu; Yan, Fengping; Singh, Leena; Cao, Wei; Xu, Ningning; Hu, Xiang; Singh, Ranjan; Wang, Mingwei; Zhang, Weili

2015-11-02

The realization of high refractive index is of significant interest in optical imaging with enhanced resolution. Strongly coupled subwavelength resonators were proposed and demonstrated at both optical and terahertz frequencies to enhance the refractive index due to large induced dipole moment in meta-atoms. Here, we report an alternative design for flexible free-standing terahertz metasurface in the strong coupling regime where we experimentally achieve a peak refractive index value of 14.36. We also investigate the impact of the nearest neighbor coupling in the form of frequency tuning and enhancement of the peak refractive index. We provide an analytical circuit model to explain the impact of geometrical parameters and coupling on the effective refractive index of the metasurface. The proposed meta-atom structure enables tailoring of the peak refractive index based on nearest neighbor coupling and this property offers tremendous design flexibility for transformation optics and other index-gradient devices at terahertz frequencies.

Long period grating refractive-index sensor: optimal design for single wavelength interrogation.

PubMed

Kapoor, Amita; Sharma, Enakshi K

2009-11-01

We report the design criteria for the use of long period gratings (LPGs) as refractive-index sensors with output power at a single interrogating wavelength as the measurement parameter. The design gives maximum sensitivity in a given refractive-index range when the interrogating wavelength is fixed. Use of the design criteria is illustrated by the design of refractive-index sensors for specific application to refractive-index variation of a sugar solution with a concentration and detection of mole fraction of xylene in heptane (paraffin).

Roughened glass slides and a spectrophotometer for the detection of the wavelength-dependent refractive index of transparent liquids.

PubMed

Niskanen, Ilpo; Räty, Jukka; Myllylä, Risto; Sutinen, Veijo; Matsuda, Kiyofumi; Homma, Kazuhiro; Silfsten, Pertti; Peiponen, Kai-Erik

2012-07-01

We describe a method to determine the wavelength-dependent refractive index of liquids by measurement of light transmittance with a spectrophotometer. The method is based on using roughened glass slides with different a priori known refractive indices and immersing the slides into the transparent liquid with unknown refractive index. Using the dispersion data on the glass material it is possible to find the index match between the liquid and the glass slide, and hence the refractive index of the liquid.

Compact eccentric long period grating with improved sensitivity in low refractive index region.

PubMed

Shen, Fangcheng; Zhou, Kaiming; Gordon, Neil; Zhang, Lin; Shu, Xuewen

2017-07-10

We demonstrate a compact eccentric long period grating with enhanced sensitivity in low refractive index region. With a period designed at 15 µm for coupling light to high order cladding modes, the grating is more sensitive to surrounding refractive index in low refractive index region. The intrinsically low coupling coefficients for those high order cladding modes are significantly improved with the eccentric localized inscription induced by the femtosecond laser. The fabricated grating is compact with a length of 4.05 mm, and exhibits an average sensitivity of ~505 nm/RIU in low refractive index region (1.3328-1.3544). The proposed principle can also work in other refractive index region with a proper choice of the resonant cladding modes.

Decoupling the refractive index from the electrical properties of transparent conducting oxides via periodic superlattices.

PubMed

Caffrey, David; Norton, Emma; Coileáin, Cormac Ó; Smith, Christopher M; Bulfin, Brendan; Farrell, Leo; Shvets, Igor V; Fleischer, Karsten

2016-09-13

We demonstrate an alternative approach to tuning the refractive index of materials. Current methodologies for tuning the refractive index of a material often result in undesirable changes to the structural or optoelectronic properties. By artificially layering a transparent conducting oxide with a lower refractive index material the overall film retains a desirable conductivity and mobility while acting optically as an effective medium with a modified refractive index. Calculations indicate that, with our refractive index change of 0.2, a significant reduction of reflective losses could be obtained by the utilisation of these structures in optoelectronic devices. Beyond this, periodic superlattice structures present a solution to decouple physical properties where the underlying electronic interaction is governed by different length scales.

Reflection based Extraordinary Optical Transmission Fiber Optic Probe for Refractive Index Sensing.

PubMed

Lan, Xinwei; Cheng, Baokai; Yang, Qingbo; Huang, Jie; Wang, Hanzheng; Ma, Yinfa; Shi, Honglan; Xiao, Hai

2014-03-31

Fiber optic probes for chemical sensing based on the extraordinary optical transmission (EOT) phenomenon are designed and fabricated by perforating subwavelength hole arrays on the gold film coated optical fiber endface. The device exhibits a red shift in response to the surrounding refractive index increases with high sensitivity, enabling a reflection-based refractive index sensor with a compact and simple configuration. By choosing the period of hole arrays, the sensor can be designed to operate in the near infrared telecommunication wavelength range, where the abundant source and detectors are available for easy instrumentation. The new sensor probe is demonstrated for refractive index measurement using refractive index matching fluids. The sensitivity reaches 573 nm/RIU in the 1.333~1.430 refractive index range.

Sensing dynamic cytoplasm refractive index changes of adherent cells with quantitative phase microscopy using incorporated microspheres as optical probes.

PubMed

Przibilla, Sabine; Dartmann, Sebastian; Vollmer, Angelika; Ketelhut, Steffi; Greve, Burkhard; von Bally, Gert; Kemper, Björn

2012-09-01

The intracellular refractive index is an important parameter that describes the optical density of the cytoplasm and the concentration of the intracellular solutes. The refractive index of adherently grown cells is difficult to access. We present a method in which silica microspheres in living cells are used to determine the cytoplasm refractive index with quantitative phase microscopy. The reliability of our approach for refractive index retrieval is shown by data from a comparative study on osmotically stimulated adherent and suspended human pancreatic tumor cells. Results from adherent human fibro sarcoma cells demonstrate the capability of the method for sensing of dynamic refractive index changes and its usage with microfluidics.

Refractometers for different refractive index range by surface plasmon resonance sensors in multimode optical fibers with different metals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zuppella, P.; Corso, Alain J.; Pelizzo, Maria G.; Cennamo, N.; Zeni, L.

2016-09-01

We have realized a plasmonic sensor based on Au/Pd metal bilayer in a multimode plastic optical fiber. This metal bilayer, based on a metal with high imaginary part of the refractive index and gold, shows interesting properties in terms of sensitivity and performances, in different refractive index ranges. The development of highly sensitive platforms for high refractive index detection (higher than 1.38) is interesting for chemical applications based on molecularly imprinted polymer as receptors, while the aqueous medium is the refractive index range of biosensors based on bio-receptors. In this work we have presented an Au/Pd metal bilayer optimized for 1.38-1.42 refractive index range.

Segment density profiles of polyelectrolyte brushes determined by Fourier transform ellipsometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Biesalski, Markus; Rühe, Jürgen; Johannsmann, Diethelm

1999-10-01

We describe a method for the explicit determination of the segment density profile φ(z) of surface-attached polymer brushes with multiple angle of incidence null-ellipsometry. Because the refractive index contrast between the brush layer and the solvent is weak, multiple reflections are of minor influence and the ellipsometric spectrum is closely related to the Fourier transform of the refractive index profile, thereby allowing for explicit inversion of the ellipsometric data. We chose surface-attached monolayers of polymethacrylic acid (PMAA), a weak polyelectrolyte, as a model system and determined the segment density profile of this system as a function of the pH value of the surrounding medium by the Fourier method. Complementary to the Fourier analysis, fits with error functions are given as well. The brushes were prepared on the bases of high refractive index prisms with the "grafting-from" technique. In water, the brushes swell by more than a factor of 30. The swelling increases with increasing pH because of a growing fraction of dissociated acidic groups leading to a larger electrostatic repulsion.

Measurement and data processing approach for detecting anisotropic spatial statistics of the turbulence-induced index of refraction fluctuations in the upper atmosphere.

PubMed

Havens, Timothy C; Roggemann, Michael C; Schulz, Timothy J; Brown, Wade W; Beyer, Jeff T; Otten, L John

2002-05-20

We discuss a method of data reduction and analysis that has been developed for a novel experiment to detect anisotropic turbulence in the tropopause and to measure the spatial statistics of these flows. The experimental concept is to make measurements of temperature at 15 points on a hexagonal grid for altitudes from 12,000 to 18,000 m while suspended from a balloon performing a controlled descent. From the temperature data, we estimate the index of refraction and study the spatial statistics of the turbulence-induced index of refraction fluctuations. We present and evaluate the performance of a processing approach to estimate the parameters of an anisotropic model for the spatial power spectrum of the turbulence-induced index of refraction fluctuations. A Gaussian correlation model and a least-squares optimization routine are used to estimate the parameters of the model from the measurements. In addition, we implemented a quick-look algorithm to have a computationally nonintensive way of viewing the autocorrelation function of the index fluctuations. The autocorrelation of the index of refraction fluctuations is binned and interpolated onto a uniform grid from the sparse points that exist in our experiment. This allows the autocorrelation to be viewed with a three-dimensional plot to determine whether anisotropy exists in a specific data slab. Simulation results presented here show that, in the presence of the anticipated levels of measurement noise, the least-squares estimation technique allows turbulence parameters to be estimated with low rms error.

Non-destructive geometric and refractive index characterization of single and multi-element lenses using optical coherence tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

El-Haddad, Mohamed T.; Tao, Yuankai K.

2018-02-01

Design of optical imaging systems requires careful balancing of lens aberrations to optimize the point-spread function (PSF) and minimize field distortions. Aberrations and distortions are a result of both lens geometry and glass material. While most lens manufacturers provide optical models to facilitate system-level simulation, these models are often not reflective of true system performance because of manufacturing tolerances. Optical design can be further confounded when achromatic or proprietary lenses are employed. Achromats are ubiquitous in systems that utilize broadband sources due to their superior performance in balancing chromatic aberrations. Similarly, proprietary lenses may be custom-designed for optimal performance, but lens models are generally not available. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) provides non-contact, depth-resolved imaging with high axial resolution and sensitivity. OCT has been previously used to measure the refractive index of unknown materials. In a homogenous sample, the group refractive index is obtained as the ratio between the measured optical and geometric thicknesses of the sample. In heterogenous samples, a method called focus-tracking (FT) quantifies the effect of focal shift introduced by the sample. This enables simultaneous measurement of the thickness and refractive index of intermediate sample layers. Here, we extend the mathematical framework of FT to spherical surfaces, and describe a method based on OCT and FT for full characterization of lens geometry and refractive index. Finally, we validate our characterization method on commercially available singlet and doublet lenses.

Tapered optical fiber tip probes based on focused ion beam-milled Fabry-Perot microcavities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

André, Ricardo M.; Warren-Smith, Stephen C.; Becker, Martin; Dellith, Jan; Rothhardt, Manfred; Zibaii, M. I.; Latifi, H.; Marques, Manuel B.; Bartelt, Hartmut; Frazão, Orlando

2016-09-01

Focused ion beam technology is combined with dynamic chemical etching to create microcavities in tapered optical fiber tips, resulting in fiber probes for temperature and refractive index sensing. Dynamic chemical etching uses hydrofluoric acid and a syringe pump to etch standard optical fibers into cone structures called tapered fiber tips where the length, shape, and cone angle can be precisely controlled. On these tips, focused ion beam is used to mill several different types of Fabry-Perot microcavities. Two main cavity types are initially compared and then combined to form a third, complex cavity structure. In the first case, a gap is milled on the tapered fiber tip which allows the external medium to penetrate the light guiding region and thus presents sensitivity to external refractive index changes. In the second, two slots that function as mirrors are milled on the tip creating a silica cavity that is only sensitive to temperature changes. Finally, both cavities are combined on a single tapered fiber tip, resulting in a multi-cavity structure capable of discriminating between temperature and refractive index variations. This dual characterization is performed with the aid of a fast Fourier transform method to separate the contributions of each cavity and thus of temperature and refractive index. Ultimately, a tapered optical fiber tip probe with sub-standard dimensions containing a multi-cavity structure is projected, fabricated, characterized and applied as a sensing element for simultaneous temperature and refractive index discrimination.

3D microfluidic fabrication using a low refractive index polymer for clear microscopic observation at the fluid boundary

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hanada, Y.

2018-02-01

Microfluidic chips known as μ-TAS or LoC have become versatile tools in cell research, since functional biochips are able to streamline dynamic observations of various cells. Glass or polymers are generally used as the substrate due to their high transparency, chemical stability and cost-effectiveness. However, these materials are not well suited to the microscopic observation at the fluid boundary due to the refractive index mismatch between the medium and the biochip material. For this reason, we have developed a method of fabricating three-dimensional (3D) microfluidic chips made of a low refractive index fluoric polymer CYTOP. CYTOP has a refractive index of 1.34, a value that is almost equivalent to that of water. This optical property is very important for clear 3D microscopic observations of cell motion near the solid boundary, due to the minimal mismatch between the refractive index values of the medium and the CYTOP substrate. Therefore, CYTOP microfluidics are expected to allow the generation of clear images of unique cell migratory processes near the microfluidic sidewall. Therefore, we established the fabrication procedure involving the use of femtosecond laser direct writing, followed by wet etching and annealing, to create high-quality 3D microfluidics inside a polymer substrate. A microfluidic chip made in this manner enables us to more clearly observe areas near the fluid surface, compared to the observations possible using conventional microfluidic chips.

Giant Gating Tunability of Optical Refractive Index in Transition Metal Dichalcogenide Monolayers.

PubMed

Yu, Yiling; Yu, Yifei; Huang, Lujun; Peng, Haowei; Xiong, Liwei; Cao, Linyou

2017-06-14

We report that the refractive index of transition metal dichacolgenide (TMDC) monolayers, such as MoS 2 , WS 2 , and WSe 2 , can be substantially tuned by >60% in the imaginary part and >20% in the real part around exciton resonances using complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor (CMOS) compatible electrical gating. This giant tunablility is rooted in the dominance of excitonic effects in the refractive index of the monolayers and the strong susceptibility of the excitons to the influence of injected charge carriers. The tunability mainly results from the effects of injected charge carriers to broaden the spectral width of excitonic interband transitions and to facilitate the interconversion of neutral and charged excitons. The other effects of the injected charge carriers, such as renormalizing bandgap and changing exciton binding energy, only play negligible roles. We also demonstrate that the atomically thin monolayers, when combined with photonic structures, can enable the efficiencies of optical absorption (reflection) tuned from 40% (60%) to 80% (20%) due to the giant tunability of the refractive index. This work may pave the way toward the development of field-effect photonics in which the optical functionality can be controlled with CMOS circuits.

Angle-resolved spectral Fabry-Pérot interferometer for single-shot measurement of refractive index dispersion over a broadband spectrum

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dong, J. T.; Ji, F.; Xia, H. J.; Liu, Z. J.; Zhang, T. D.; Yang, L.

2018-01-01

An angle-resolved spectral Fabry-Pérot interferometer is reported for fast and accurate measurement of the refractive index dispersion of optical materials with parallel plate shape. The light sheet from the wavelength tunable laser is incident on the parallel plate with converging angles. The transmitted interference light for each angle is dispersed and captured by a 2D sensor, in which the rows and the columns are used to simultaneously record the intensities as a function of wavelength and incident angle, respectively. The interferogram, named angle-resolved spectral intensity distribution, is analyzed by fitting the phase information instead of finding the fringe peak locations that present periodic ambiguity. The refractive index dispersion and the physical thickness can be then retrieved from a single-shot interferogram within 18 s. Experimental results of an optical substrate standard indicate that the accuracy of the refractive index dispersion is less than 2.5  ×  10-5 and the relative uncertainty of the thickness is 6  ×  10-5 mm (3σ) due to the high stability and the single-shot measurement of the proposed system.

Regional variation in the refractive-index of the bovine and human cornea.

PubMed

Vasudevan, Balamurali; Simpson, Trefford L; Sivak, Jacob G

2008-10-01

Given the refractive importance of the human cornea, surprisingly little attention has been directed to the study of local variation in corneal refractive-index. This in vitro and in vivo study measures the refractive-index of different portions of the bovine and human cornea. Fifty fresh bovine corneas (obtained from an abattoir) and 10 human subjects were used for the study. The refractive-index of the central, nasal, and temporal corneal epithelium was measured with a bench-top Abbe refractometer in the case of bovine corneas and with a hand-held refractometer with humans. The mean (+/-standard deviation) refractive-indices of the central, nasal, and temporal bovine corneal epithelium were 1.3760 (+/-0.003), 1.3757 (+/-0.002), and 1.3746 (+/-0.002), respectively. Refractive-indices of the anterior and posterior bovine corneal stroma were 1.3731 (+/-0.002) and 1.3708 (+/-0.004), respectively. The mean (+/-standard deviation) refractive-index in the central, nasal, and temporal periphery of the human cornea epithelium were 1.3970 (+/-0.001), 1.3946 (+/-0.001), and 1.3940 (+/-0.001), respectively. There are small local differences in the refractive-index of the bovine and human corneal epithelium and the refractive-index of the epithelium is higher than that of the anterior and posterior stroma of the bovine cornea.

Imaginary refractive index and other microphysical properties of volcanic ash, Sarahan dust, and other mineral aerosols

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rocha Lima, A.; Martins, J.; Krotkov, N. A.; Artaxo, P.; Todd, M.; Ben Ami, Y.; Dolgos, G.; Espinosa, R.

2013-12-01

Aerosol properties are essential to support remote sensing measurements, atmospheric circulation and climate models. This research aims to improve the understanding of the optical and microphysical properties of different types of aerosols particles. Samples of volcanic ash, Saharan dust and other mineral aerosols particles were analyzed by different techniques. Ground samples were sieved down to 45um, de-agglomerated and resuspended in the laboratory using a Fluidized Bed Aerosol Generator (FBAG). Particles were collected on Nuclepore filters into PM10, PM2.5, or PM1.0. and analyzed by different techniques, such as Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) for determination of size distribution and shape, spectral reflectance for determination of the optical absorption properties as a function of the wavelength, material density, and X-Ray fluorescence for the elemental composition. The spectral imaginary part of refractive index from the UV to the short wave infrared (SWIR) wavelength was derived empirically from the measurements of the spectral mass absorption coefficient, size distribution and density of the material. Some selected samples were also analyzed with the Polarized Imaging Nephelometer (PI-Neph) instrument for the characterization of the aerosol polarized phase function. This work compares results of the spectral refractive index of different materials obtained by our methodology with those available in the literature. In some cases there are significant differences both in magnitude and spectral dependence of the imaginary refractive index. These differences are evaluated and discussed in this work.

Influence of stromal refractive index and hydration on corneal laser refractive surgery.

PubMed

de Ortueta, Diego; von Rüden, Dennis; Magnago, Thomas; Arba Mosquera, Samuel

2014-06-01

To evaluate the influence of the stromal refractive index and hydration on postoperative outcomes in eyes that had corneal laser refractive surgery using the Amaris laser system. Augenzentrum Recklinghausen, Recklinghausen, Germany. Comparative case series. At the 6-month follow-up, right eyes were retrospectively analyzed. The effect of the stromal refractive index and hydration on refractive outcomes was assessed using univariate linear and multilinear correlations. Sixty eyes were analyzed. Univariate linear analyses showed that the stromal refractive index and hydration were correlated with the thickness of the preoperative exposed stroma and was statistically different for laser in situ keratomileusis and laser-assisted subepithelial keratectomy treatments. Univariate multilinear analyses showed that the spherical equivalent (SE) was correlated with the attempted SE and stromal refractive index (or hydration). Analyses suggest overcorrections for higher stromal refractive index values and for lower hydration values. The stromal refractive index and hydration affected postoperative outcomes in a subtle, yet significant manner. An adjustment toward greater attempted correction in highly hydrated corneas and less intended correction in low hydrated corneas might help optimize refractive outcomes. Mr. Magnago and Dr. Arba-Mosquera are employees of and Dr. Diego de Ortueta is a consultant to Schwind eye-tech-solutions GmbH & Co. KG. Mr. Rüden has no financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned. Copyright © 2014 ASCRS and ESCRS. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Fabrication of refractive index distributions in polymer using a photochemical reaction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kada, Takeshi; Obara, Atsushi; Watanabe, Toshiyuki; Miyata, Seizo; Liang, Chuan Xin; Machida, Hideaki; Kiso, Koichi

2000-01-01

We demonstrate that a photochemical reaction can create various distributions of refractive index in polymer. When the polymer containing a photochemically active material is irradiated by UV light, the photochemical reaction which breaks the π-conjugated system in the material and decreases its linear polarizability can reduce refractive index of the polymer. We prepared a PMMA film added DMAPN ((4-N,N-dimethylaminophenyl)-N'-phenylnitrone) with a rate of 23 wt % by use of spin coating. Electronic structural change of DMAPN and refractive indices of the film before and after UV irradiation were evaluated by UV absorption spectra and m-line method, respectively. The UV irradiation decreased λmax at 380 nm in the absorption spectra, which is attributed to nitrone, and the refractive indices exponentially with irradiation time. The change of refractive indices reached 0.028. The refractive index profile upon depth of the film was investigated by measuring refractive indices of stacked DMAPN/PMMA films. When UV with a power of 10.7 mW/cm2 irradiated upon three stacked DMAPN/PMMA films for 35 s, variation of the refractive index change showed a quadratic profile. The refractive index profile with various irradiation time can be accounted with the combination of the chemical kinetics with the steady state approximation and Lambert-Beer's law. Thus, the photochemical reaction can be used to control the refractive index distribution in polymer.

Highly tunable refractive index visible-light metasurface from block copolymer self-assembly.

PubMed

Kim, Ju Young; Kim, Hyowook; Kim, Bong Hoon; Chang, Taeyong; Lim, Joonwon; Jin, Hyeong Min; Mun, Jeong Ho; Choi, Young Joo; Chung, Kyungjae; Shin, Jonghwa; Fan, Shanhui; Kim, Sang Ouk

2016-09-29

The refractive index of natural transparent materials is limited to 2-3 throughout the visible wavelength range. Wider controllability of the refractive index is desired for novel optical applications such as nanoimaging and integrated photonics. We report that metamaterials consisting of period and symmetry-tunable self-assembled nanopatterns can provide a controllable refractive index medium for a broad wavelength range, including the visible region. Our approach exploits the independent control of permeability and permittivity with nanoscale objects smaller than the skin depth. The precise manipulation of the interobject distance in block copolymer nanopatterns via pattern shrinkage increased the effective refractive index up to 5.10. The effective refractive index remains above 3.0 over more than 1,000 nm wavelength bandwidth. Spatially graded and anisotropic refractive indices are also obtained with the design of transitional and rotational symmetry modification.

Highly tunable refractive index visible-light metasurface from block copolymer self-assembly

PubMed Central

Kim, Ju Young; Kim, Hyowook; Kim, Bong Hoon; Chang, Taeyong; Lim, Joonwon; Jin, Hyeong Min; Mun, Jeong Ho; Choi, Young Joo; Chung, Kyungjae; Shin, Jonghwa; Fan, Shanhui; Kim, Sang Ouk

2016-01-01

The refractive index of natural transparent materials is limited to 2–3 throughout the visible wavelength range. Wider controllability of the refractive index is desired for novel optical applications such as nanoimaging and integrated photonics. We report that metamaterials consisting of period and symmetry-tunable self-assembled nanopatterns can provide a controllable refractive index medium for a broad wavelength range, including the visible region. Our approach exploits the independent control of permeability and permittivity with nanoscale objects smaller than the skin depth. The precise manipulation of the interobject distance in block copolymer nanopatterns via pattern shrinkage increased the effective refractive index up to 5.10. The effective refractive index remains above 3.0 over more than 1,000 nm wavelength bandwidth. Spatially graded and anisotropic refractive indices are also obtained with the design of transitional and rotational symmetry modification. PMID:27683077

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hidayat, Arif, E-mail: arif.hidayat.fmipa@um.ac.id; Latifah, Eny; Kurniati, Diana

This study investigated the influence of refraction index strength on the light propagation in refraction index-varied dielectric material. This dielectric material served as photonic lattice. The behavior of light propagation influenced by variation of refraction index in photonic lattice was investigated. Modes of the guiding light were determined numerically using squared-operator iteration method. It was found that the greater the strength of refraction index, the smaller the guiding modes.

Cell refractive index for cell biology and disease diagnosis: past, present and future.

PubMed

Liu, P Y; Chin, L K; Ser, W; Chen, H F; Hsieh, C-M; Lee, C-H; Sung, K-B; Ayi, T C; Yap, P H; Liedberg, B; Wang, K; Bourouina, T; Leprince-Wang, Y

2016-02-21

Cell refractive index is a key biophysical parameter, which has been extensively studied. It is correlated with other cell biophysical properties including mechanical, electrical and optical properties, and not only represents the intracellular mass and concentration of a cell, but also provides important insight for various biological models. Measurement techniques developed earlier only measure the effective refractive index of a cell or a cell suspension, providing only limited information on cell refractive index and hence hindering its in-depth analysis and correlation. Recently, the emergence of microfluidic, photonic and imaging technologies has enabled the manipulation of a single cell and the 3D refractive index of a single cell down to sub-micron resolution, providing powerful tools to study cells based on refractive index. In this review, we provide an overview of cell refractive index models and measurement techniques including microfluidic chip-based techniques for the last 50 years, present the applications and significance of cell refractive index in cell biology, hematology, and pathology, and discuss future research trends in the field, including 3D imaging methods, integration with microfluidics and potential applications in new and breakthrough research areas.

Ultraviolet refractometry using field-based light scattering spectroscopy

PubMed Central

Fu, Dan; Choi, Wonshik; Sung, Yongjin; Oh, Seungeun; Yaqoob, Zahid; Park, YongKeun; Dasari, Ramachandra R.; Feld, Michael S.

2010-01-01

Accurate refractive index measurement in the deep ultraviolet (UV) range is important for the separate quantification of biomolecules such as proteins and DNA in biology. This task is demanding and has not been fully exploited so far. Here we report a new method of measuring refractive index using field-based light scattering spectroscopy, which is applicable to any wavelength range and suitable for both solutions and homogenous objects with well-defined shape such as microspheres. The angular scattering distribution of single microspheres immersed in homogeneous media is measured over the wavelength range 260 to 315 nm using quantitative phase microscopy. By least square fitting the observed scattering distribution with Mie scattering theory, the refractive index of either the sphere or the immersion medium can be determined provided that one is known a priori. Using this method, we have measured the refractive index dispersion of SiO2 spheres and bovine serum albumin (BSA) solutions in the deep UV region. Specific refractive index increments of BSA are also extracted. Typical accuracy of the present refractive index technique is ≤0.003. The precision of refractive index measurements is ≤0.002 and that of specific refractive index increment determination is ≤0.01 mL/g. PMID:20372622

Refraction index sensor based on phase resonances in a subwavelength structure with double period.

PubMed

Skigin, Diana C; Lester, Marcelo

2016-10-01

In this paper, we numerically demonstrate a refraction index sensor based on phase resonance excitation in a subwavelength-slit structure with a double period. The sensor consists of a metal layer with subwavelength slots arranged in a bi-periodic form, separated from a high refraction index medium. Between the metallic structure and the incident medium, a dielectric waveguide is formed whose refraction index is going to be determined. Variations in the refraction index of the waveguide are detected as shifts in the peaks of transmitted intensity originated by resonant modes supported by the compound metallic structure. At normal incidence, the spectral position of these resonant peaks exhibits a linear or a quadratic dependence with the refraction index, which permits us to obtain the unknown refraction index value with a high precision for a wide range of wavelengths. Since the operating principle of the sensor is due to the morphological resonances of the slits' structure, this device can be scaled to operate in different wavelength ranges while keeping similar characteristics.

Demonstration of versatile whispering-gallery micro-lasers for remote refractive index sensing.

PubMed

Wan, Lei; Chandrahalim, Hengky; Zhou, Jian; Li, Zhaohui; Chen, Cong; Cho, Sangha; Zhang, Hui; Mei, Ting; Tian, Huiping; Oki, Yuji; Nishimura, Naoya; Fan, Xudong; Guo, L Jay

2018-03-05

We developed chip-scale remote refractive index sensors based on Rhodamine 6G (R6G)-doped polymer micro-ring lasers. The chemical, temperature, and mechanical sturdiness of the fused-silica host guaranteed a flexible deployment of dye-doped polymers for refractive index sensing. The introduction of the dye as gain medium demonstrated the feasibility of remote sensing based on the free-space optics measurement setup. Compared to the R6G-doped TZ-001, the lasing behavior of R6G-doped SU-8 polymer micro-ring laser under an aqueous environment had a narrower spectrum linewidth, producing the minimum detectable refractive index change of 4 × 10 -4 RIU. The maximum bulk refractive index sensitivity (BRIS) of 75 nm/RIU was obtained for SU-8 laser-based refractive index sensors. The economical, rapid, and simple realization of polymeric micro-scale whispering-gallery-mode (WGM) laser-based refractive index sensors will further expand pathways of static and dynamic remote environmental, chemical, biological, and bio-chemical sensing.

Design of a compact and high sensitive refractive index sensor base on metal-insulator-metal plasmonic Bragg grating.

PubMed

Binfeng, Yun; Guohua, Hu; Ruohu, Zhang; Yiping, Cui

2014-11-17

A nanometric and high sensitive refractive index sensor based on the metal-insulator-metal plasmonic Bragg grating is proposed. The wavelength encoded sensing characteristics of the refractive index sensor were investigated by analyzing its transmission spectrum. The numerical results show that a good linear relationship between the Bragg wavelength and the refractive index of the sensing material can be obtained, which is in accordance with the analytical results very well. A high refractive index sensitivity of 1,488 nm/RIU around Bragg resonance wavelength of 1,550 nm was obtained. Besides, the simulation results show that the sensitivity is depended on the Bragg resonance wavelength and the longer the Bragg resonance wavelength, the higher sensitivity can be obtained. Furthermore, the figure of merit of the refractive index sensor can be greatly increased by introducing a nano-cavity in the proposed plasmonic Bragg grating structure. This work pave the way for high sensitive nanometric refractive index sensor design and application.

Holographic Optical Elements with Ultra-High Spatial Frequencies.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-01-01

optical film thickness is equal to one-quarter of the wavelength of the incident radiation and the film’s index of refraction is...Am amount of photoresist material removed by developer N diffractive order number n index of refraction nx index of refraction -- x direction ny index ...since a material with the required index of refraction is usually hard to find4 7 . For example, there is no inorganic material available for

Analysis of the temporal effects on grating evolution in photopolymer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kelly, John V.; Gleeson, Michael R.; Close, Ciara E.; O'Neill, Feidhlim T.; Sheridan, John T.; Gallego, Sergi; Neipp, Cristian

2006-04-01

The nonlocal polymerization driven diffusion model is used to describe holographic grating formation in acrylamidebased photopolymer. The free radical chain polymerization process results in polymer being generated nonlocal both in space and time to the point of chain initiation. A Gaussian spatial material response function and an exponential temporal material response function are used to account for these effects. In this paper we firstly examine the nature of the temporal evolution of grating formation for short recording periods. It is shown that in this case, temporal effects become most notable and the inclusion of the nonlocal temporal response function is shown to be necessary to accurately describe the process. In particular, brief post exposure selfamplification of the refractive index modulation is noted. This is attributed to continued chain growth for a brief period after exposure. Following this a slight decay in the grating amplitude also occurs. This we believe is due to the continued diffusion of monomer after exposure. Since the sinusoidal recording pattern generates a monomer concentration gradient during the recording process monomer diffusion occurs both during and after exposure. The evolution of the refractive index modulation is determined by the respective refractive index values of the recording material components. From independent measurements it is noted that the refractive index value of the monomer is slightly less than that of the background material. Therefore as monomer diffuses back into the dark regions, a reduction in overall refractive index modulation occurs. Volume changes occurring within the material also affect the nature of grating evolution. To model these effects we employ a free volume concept. Due to the fact that the covalent single carbon bond in the polymer is up to 50% shorter than the van der Waals bond in the liquid monomer state, free volume is created when monomer is converted to polymer. For each bond conversion we assume a hole is generated which then collapses at some characteristic rate constant. Incorporating each of these effects into our model, the model is then solved using a Finite-Difference Time- Domain method (FDTD). The Lorentz-Lorenz relation is used to determine the overall evolution refractive index modulation and the corresponding diffraction efficiency of the resulting grating is calculated using Rigorous Coupled Wave Analysis (RCWA). Fits are then carried out to experimental data for 1 second exposures. Good quality fits are achieved and material parameters extracted. Monomer diffusion rates are determined to be of the order of D ~ 10 -10 cm 2/s and the time constant of the nonlocal material temporal response function being of the order of τ n ~ 10 -2s. Material shrinkage occurring over these recording periods is also determined.

Structural, electronic and optical properties of LiNbO3 using GGA-PBE and TB-mBJ functionals: A DFT study

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arshad Javid, M.; Khan, Zafar Ullah; Mehmood, Zahid; Nabi, Azeem; Hussain, Fayyaz; Imran, M.; Nadeem, Muhammad; Anjum, Naeem

2018-06-01

In the present work, first-principles calculations were performed to obtain the structural, electronic and optical properties of lithium niobate crystal using two exchange-correlation functionals (GGA-PBE and TB-mBJ). The calculated structural parameters were very close to the experimental values. TB-mBJ functional was found to be good when compared to LDA and GGA functionals in case of bandgap energy of 3.715 eV of lithium niobate. It was observed that the upper valence and lower conduction bands consist mainly the O-2p and Nb-4d states, respectively. Furthermore, calculations for real and imaginary parts of frequency-dependent dielectric function 𝜀(ω) of lithium niobate crystal were performed using TD-DFT method. The ordinary refractive index no(ω), extraordinary refractive index ne(ω), its birefringence and absorption peaks in imaginary dielectric function 𝜀2(ω) were also calculated.

Decoupling the refractive index from the electrical properties of transparent conducting oxides via periodic superlattices

PubMed Central

Caffrey, David; Norton, Emma; Coileáin, Cormac Ó; Smith, Christopher M.; Bulfin, Brendan; Farrell, Leo; Shvets, Igor V.; Fleischer, Karsten

2016-01-01

We demonstrate an alternative approach to tuning the refractive index of materials. Current methodologies for tuning the refractive index of a material often result in undesirable changes to the structural or optoelectronic properties. By artificially layering a transparent conducting oxide with a lower refractive index material the overall film retains a desirable conductivity and mobility while acting optically as an effective medium with a modified refractive index. Calculations indicate that, with our refractive index change of 0.2, a significant reduction of reflective losses could be obtained by the utilisation of these structures in optoelectronic devices. Beyond this, periodic superlattice structures present a solution to decouple physical properties where the underlying electronic interaction is governed by different length scales. PMID:27623228

Refractive index variance of cells and tissues measured by quantitative phase imaging.

PubMed

Shan, Mingguang; Kandel, Mikhail E; Popescu, Gabriel

2017-01-23

The refractive index distribution of cells and tissues governs their interaction with light and can report on morphological modifications associated with disease. Through intensity-based measurements, refractive index information can be extracted only via scattering models that approximate light propagation. As a result, current knowledge of refractive index distributions across various tissues and cell types remains limited. Here we use quantitative phase imaging and the statistical dispersion relation (SDR) to extract information about the refractive index variance in a variety of specimens. Due to the phase-resolved measurement in three-dimensions, our approach yields refractive index results without prior knowledge about the tissue thickness. With the recent progress in quantitative phase imaging systems, we anticipate that using SDR will become routine in assessing tissue optical properties.

3-dimensional dark traps for low refractive index bio-cells using a single optical fiber Bessel beam.

PubMed

Zhang, Yu; Tang, Xiaoyun; Zhang, Yaxun; Su, Wenjie; Liu, Zhihai; Yang, Xinghua; Zhang, Jianzhong; Yang, Jun; Oh, Kyunghwan; Yuan, Libo

2018-06-15

We proposed and experimentally demonstrated 3-dimensional dark traps for low refractive index bio-cells using a single optical fiber Bessel beam. The Bessel beam was produced by concatenating single-mode fiber and a step index multimode fiber, which was then focused by a high refractive index glass microsphere integrated on the fiber end facet. The focused Bessel beam provided two dark fields along the axial direction, where stable trapping of low refractive index bio-cells was realized in a high refractive index liquid bath. The all-fiber and seamlessly integrated structure of the proposed scheme can find ample potential as a micro-optical probe in in situ characterization and manipulation of multiple bio-cells with refractive indices lower than that of the liquid bath.

Fiber-optic epoxy composite cure sensor. I. Dependence of refractive index of an autocatalytic reaction epoxy system at 850 nm on temperature and extent of cure

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lam, Kai-Yuen; Afromowitz, Martin A.

1995-09-01

We discuss the behavior of the refractive index of a typical epoxy-aromatic diamine system. Near 850 nm the index of refraction is found to be largely controlled by the density of the epoxy. Models are derived to describe its dependence on temperature and extent of cure. Within the range of temperatures studied, the refractive index decreases linearly with increasing temperature. In addition, as the epoxy is cured, the refractive index increases linearly with conversion to the gel point. >From then on, shrinkage in the volume of the epoxy is restricted by local viscosity. Therefore the linear relationship between the refractive index and the extent of cure does not hold beyond the gel point.

Simultaneous identification of the low-field-induced tiny variation of complex refractive index for anisotropic and opaque magnetic-fluid thin film by a stable heterodyne Mach-Zehnder interferometer.

PubMed

Hong, Chin-Yih; Chieh, Jen-Jie; Yang, Shieh-Yueh; Yang, Hong-Chang; Horng, Herng-Er

2009-10-10

We use a heterodyne Mach-Zehnder interferometer to simultaneously and simply measure the complex refractive index by only normal incidence on the specimen, instead of using a complicated measurement procedure or instrument that only measures the real or imaginary part of the complex refractive index. To study the tiny variation of the complex refractive index, the small complex refractive-index variation of a rare-concentration magnetic-fluid thin film, due to a weak field of less than 200 Oe, was processed by this interferometer. We also present the wavelength trend of the complex refractive index of magnetic fluids to verify the appearance of the slight change in a small wavelength range.

Predictive methods of some optoelectronic properties for blends based on quaternized polysulfones

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dobos, Adina Maria; Filimon, Anca

2017-11-01

Blends based on quaternized polysulfones were investigated in terms of optical and electronic properties. By applying the Bicerano formalism the refractive index and dielectric constant were evaluated. Also, the dielectric constant of these blends was studied as a function of temperature and frequency. As the result of the main chain structure and charged groups, an increase in theoretical values of the refractive index and dielectric constant with increasing of the ionic quaternized units content in the polymer blend occurs. Additionally, decrease in the dielectric constant with the increase of frequency and decrease of temperature was observed. Refractive index and dielectric constant values indicate that the analyzed samples are transparent and can be used in obtaining of materials with applications involving a small polarizability. Thus, the results are important in prediction of the special optoelectronic features of new polymers blends to obtain high-performance materials with applications in electronic and biomedical fields.

Index of Refraction of Shock Loaded Soda-Lime Glass

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alexander, C. S.

2009-12-01

Soda-lime glass (SLG) is a potential low-cost VISAR window for use at moderate shock pressures (up to 2430 GPa) where the material remains transparent. In order for SLG to be practical as a VISAR window, the correction factor, which describes the frequency correction related to the strain dependence of the refractive index, and hence the index of refraction itself, must be characterized as a function of pressure. Characterization data are reported in this paper and compared to previous results. The present data show good agreement with those of Dandekar [J. Appl. Phys. 84, 6614 (1998)] and separate study results by Gibbons and Ahrens [J. Geophys. Res. 76, 5489 (1971)] up to 7 GPa. However, at stresses over 7 GPa, marked discrepancies are evident between the present data and that of Gibbons and Ahrens. Differences in test methods may explain these discrepancies.

Index of Refraction of Shock Loaded Soda-Lime Glass

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Alexander, Scott

2009-06-01

Soda-lime glass (SLG) is a potential low-cost VISAR window for use at moderate shock pressures (up to approximately 25 GPa) where the material remains transparent. In order for SLG to be practical as a VISAR window, the correction factor, which describes the frequency correction related to the strain dependence of the refractive index, and hence the index of refraction itself, must be characterized as a function of pressure. Characterization data are reported in this paper and compared to previous results. The present data show good agreement with those of Dandekar [J. App. Physics, 84, 6614 (1998)] and separate study results by Gibbons and Ahrens [J. Geophys. Res., 76, 5489 (1971)] up to 7 GPa. However, at stresses over 7 GPa, marked discrepancies are evident between the present data and that of Gibbons and Ahrens. Differences in test methods may explain these discrepancies.

INDEX OF REFRACTION OF SHOCK LOADED SODA-LIME GLASS

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Alexander, C. S.

2009-12-28

Soda-lime glass (SLG) is a potential low-cost VISAR window for use at moderate shock pressures (up to 2430 GPa) where the material remains transparent. In order for SLG to be practical as a VISAR window, the correction factor, which describes the frequency correction related to the strain dependence of the refractive index, and hence the index of refraction itself, must be characterized as a function of pressure. Characterization data are reported in this paper and compared to previous results. The present data show good agreement with those of Dandekar [J. Appl. Phys. 84, 6614 (1998)] and separate study results bymore » Gibbons and Ahrens [J. Geophys. Res. 76, 5489 (1971)] up to 7 GPa. However, at stresses over 7 GPa, marked discrepancies are evident between the present data and that of Gibbons and Ahrens. Differences in test methods may explain these discrepancies.« less

Refractive Index Seen by a Probe Beam Interacting with a Laser-Plasma System

DOE PAGES

Turnbull, D.; Goyon, C.; Kemp, G. E.; ...

2017-01-05

Here, we report the first complete set of measurements of a laser-plasma optical system’s refractive index, as seen by a second probe laser beam, as a function of the relative wavelength shift between the two laser beams. Both the imaginary and real refractive index components are found to be in good agreement with linear theory using plasma parameters measured by optical Thomson scattering and interferometry; the former is in contrast to previous work and has implications for crossed-beam energy transfer in indirect-drive inertial confinement fusion, and the latter is measured for the first time. The data include the first demonstrationmore » of a laser-plasma polarizer with 85$-$87% extinction for the particular laser and plasma parameters used in this experiment, complementing the existing suite of high-power, tunable, and ultrafast plasma-based photonic devices.« less

Pressure dependence of the refractive index in wurtzite and rocksalt indium nitride

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Oliva, R.; MALTA-Consolider Team, Departament de Física Aplicada, ICMUV, Universitat de València, c/Dr. Moliner 50, 46100 Burjassot, València; Segura, A.

2014-12-08

We have performed high-pressure Fourier transform infrared reflectance measurements on a freestanding InN thin film to determine the refractive index of wurtzite InN and its high-pressure rocksalt phase as a function of hydrostatic pressure. From a fit to the experimental refractive-index curves including the effect of the high-energy optical gaps, phonons, free carriers, and the direct (fundamental) band-gap in the case of wurtzite InN, we obtain pressure coefficients for the low-frequency (electronic) dielectric constant ε{sub ∞}. Negative pressure coefficients of −8.8 × 10{sup −2 }GPa{sup −1} and −14.8 × 10{sup −2 }GPa{sup −1} are obtained for the wurtzite and rocksalt phases, respectively. The results are discussedmore » in terms of the electronic band structure and the compressibility of both phases.« less

Change in refractive index of muscle tissue during laser-induced interstitial thermotherapy.

PubMed

Chen, Na; Chen, Meimei; Liu, Shupeng; Guo, Qiang; Chen, Zhenyi; Wang, Tingyun

2014-01-01

This paper presents a long-period fiber-grating (LPG) based Michelson interferometric refractometry to monitor the change in refractive index of porcine muscle during laser-induced interstitial thermotherapy (LITT). As the wavelength of RI interferometer alters with the change in refractive index around the probe, the LPG based refractometry is combined with LITT system to measure the change in refractive index of porcine muscle when irradiated by laser. The experimental results show the denaturation of tissue alters the refractive index significantly and the LPG sensor can be applied to monitor the tissue state during the LITT.

Refractive index sensor based on a polymer fiber directional coupler for low index sensing.

PubMed

Lee, Kwang Jo; Liu, Xiaoqi; Vuillemin, Nelly; Lwin, Richard; Leon-Saval, Sergio G; Argyros, Alexander; Kuhlmey, Boris T

2014-07-14

We propose, numerically analyze and experimentally demonstrate a novel refractive index sensor specialized for low index sensing. The device is based on a directional coupler architecture implemented in a single microstructured polymer optical fiber incorporating two waveguides within it: a single-mode core and a satellite waveguide consisting of a hollow high-index ring. This hollow channel is filled with fluid and the refractive index of the fluid is detected through changes to the wavelength at which resonant coupling occurs between the two waveguides. The sensor design was optimized for both higher sensitivity and lower detection limit, with simulations and experiments demonstrating a sensitivity exceeding 1.4 × 10(3) nm per refractive index unit. Simulations indicate a detection limit of ~2 × 10(-6) refractive index units is achievable. We also numerically investigate the performance for refractive index changes localized at the surface of the holes, a case of particular importance for biosensing.

Dirac cones induced by accidental degeneracy in photonic crystals and zero-refractive-index materials.

PubMed

Huang, Xueqin; Lai, Yun; Hang, Zhi Hong; Zheng, Huihuo; Chan, C T

2011-05-29

A zero-refractive-index metamaterial is one in which waves do not experience any spatial phase change, and such a peculiar material has many interesting wave-manipulating properties. These materials can in principle be realized using man-made composites comprising metallic resonators or chiral inclusions, but metallic components have losses that compromise functionality at high frequencies. It would be highly desirable if we could achieve a zero refractive index using dielectrics alone. Here, we show that by employing accidental degeneracy, dielectric photonic crystals can be designed and fabricated that exhibit Dirac cone dispersion at the centre of the Brillouin zone at a finite frequency. In addition to many interesting properties intrinsic to a Dirac cone dispersion, we can use effective medium theory to relate the photonic crystal to a material with effectively zero permittivity and permeability. We then numerically and experimentally demonstrate in the microwave regime that such dielectric photonic crystals with reasonable dielectric constants manipulate waves as if they had near-zero refractive indices at and near the Dirac point frequency.

Influence of local inhomogeneities induced in corneal ablation on the evolution of contrast sensitivity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ortiz, Dolores; Saiz, Jose M.; González, Francisco

2004-04-01

The presence of local inhomogeneities in corneal tissue after refractive surgery has an influence on visual performance. Here we focus on the corneal ablation associated with Lasik surgery and its effect on the modulation transfer function (MTF) that we obtained by modifying a personalized Kooijman model. Inhomogeneities induced by the ablation occur in the form of Gaussian-distributed refractive-index variations of a given correlation length. We show how variation of refractive-index deviation and correlation length (size) of the inhomogeneities allows us to obtain pairs of values that are able to achieve a MTF evolution similar to that observed for contrast sensitivity in the same patients. An estimate of the characteristics of the local effects is obtained.

Influence of the apex angle of a hollow prism made from an ordinary commercial glass plate as a simple refractometer to the accuracy of the refractive index measurement of the edible oil

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Idris, N.; Maswati; Yusibani, E.

2018-05-01

The influence of the apex angle of a hollow prism used as a simple refractometer to the accuracy of a refractive index measurement of the edible oil samples was studied. The hollow prism was made from an ordinary commercial glass plate with a thickness of 2 mm. The apex angle of the constructed hollow prism was varied. The edible oil sample used in this study was palm oil, namely the packaged, branded oil sample and the bulk oil sample. For measuring the refractive index, the oil sample was filled in the constructed hollow prism, and then a helium-neon laser beam was passed through the oil sample at a certain angle of incidence. The angle of minimum deviation of the transmitted laser He-Ne beam was measured and then was used for calculating the refractive index of the oil sample. The refractive index measurement was made using the hollow prism with different apex angles, ranging from 300 to 600. The measurement accuracy was estimated by comparing the refractive index measured using the hollow prisms to that of obtained using a standard Abbe refractometer. It was found that the refractive index of the edible oil can be measured accurately by using the hollow prism. It was also found that the accuracy of the refractive index measurement significantly changes with the apex angle of the hollow prism. The refractive index values measured using this simple refractometer deviate up to 3,49% from the refractive index value measured using the standard Abbe refractometer, especially when the apex angle of the prism is 30°. The measurement results with high accuracies obtained when using the hollow prisms with apex angles of 450 and 600. The optimum apex angle for the present constructed hollow prism is 450. The refractive index obtained using the hollow prism with the apex angle of 450 is 1,4623 and 1,4438 for the bulk oil and the packed, branded oil samples, respectively. This result suggests that the apex angle of the prism used affects largely the accuracy of the refractive index measurement.

On the refractive index of sodium iodide solutions for index matching in PIV

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bai, Kunlun; Katz, Joseph

2014-04-01

Refractive index matching has become a popular technique for facilitating applications of modern optical diagnostic techniques, such as particle image velocimetry, in complex systems. By matching the refractive index of solid boundaries with that of the liquid, unobstructed optical paths can be achieved for illumination and image acquisition. In this research note, we extend previously provided data for the refractive index of aqueous solutions of sodium iodide (NaI) for concentrations reaching the temperature-dependent solubility limit. Results are fitted onto a quadratic empirical expression relating the concentration to the refractive index. Temperature effects are also measured. The present range of indices, 1.333-1.51, covers that of typical transparent solids, from silicone elastomers to several recently introduced materials that could be manufactured using rapid prototyping. We also review briefly previous measurements of the refractive index, viscosity, and density of NaI solutions, as well as prior research that has utilized this fluid.

The Use of Index-Matched Beads in Optical Particle Counters

PubMed Central

Hu, Zhishang; Ripple, Dean C

2014-01-01

In this paper, we demonstrate the use of 2-pyridinemethanol (2P) aqueous solutions as a refractive index matching liquid. The high refractive index and low viscosity of 2P-water mixtures enables refractive index matching of beads that cannot be index matched with glycerol-water or sucrose-water solutions, such as silica beads that have the refractive index of bulk fused silica or of polymethylmethacrylate beads. Suspensions of beads in a nearly index-matching liquid are a useful tool to understand the response of particle counting instruments to particles of low optical contrast, such as aggregated protein particles. Data from flow imaging and light obscuration instruments are presented for bead diameters ranging from 6 µm to 69 µm, in a matrix liquid spanning the point of matched refractive index. PMID:26601049

Inversion of the anomalous diffraction approximation for variable complex index of refraction near unity. [numerical tests for water-haze aerosol model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Smith, C. B.

1982-01-01

The Fymat analytic inversion method for retrieving a particle-area distribution function from anomalous diffraction multispectral extinction data and total area is generalized to the case of a variable complex refractive index m(lambda) near unity depending on spectral wavelength lambda. Inversion tests are presented for a water-haze aerosol model. An upper-phase shift limit of 5 pi/2 retrieved an accurate peak area distribution profile. Analytical corrections using both the total number and area improved the inversion.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Mehta, Sheetal, E-mail: smehta-29@yahoo.com; Das, Kallol; Keller, Jag Mohan, E-mail: smehta-29@yahoo.com

Poly (methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) and Iodine hybrid matrixes have been prepared and characterized. The optical properties of the prepared I-PMMA hybrid composites were characterized by linear absorption studies and these composites have been found to contain embedded Iodine nanoparticles. The size of the nanoparticles was found to be a function of the Iodine content of PMMA. Refractive index measurements were undertaken for different wavelengths. The results showed that the refractive index of the composite is dependent on thermal annealing and also varies nonlinearly with the doping concentration at low Iodine concentration or in the region of nanoparticles formation.

Refractive indexes of (Al, Ga, In) as epilayers on InP for optoelectronic applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mondry, M. J.; Babic, D. I.; Bowers, J. E.; Coldren, L. A.

1992-06-01

MBE grown bulk and short period superlattices of (Al, Ga, In) As epilayers lattice matched to InP were characterized by double-crystal diffractometry and low-temperature photoluminescence. A reflection spectroscopy technique was used to determine the refractive index of (Al, Ga, In) As films as a function of wavelength. The measured data were fitted to a single-oscillator dispersion model and the model coefficients are given. The resulting expression can be used in the design of wave-guides, modulators, and other optical devices.

Optical extinction efficiency measurements on fine and accumulation mode aerosol using single particle cavity ring-down spectroscopy.

PubMed

Cotterell, Michael I; Mason, Bernard J; Preston, Thomas C; Orr-Ewing, Andrew J; Reid, Jonathan P

2015-06-28

A new experiment is presented for the measurement of single aerosol particle extinction efficiencies, Qext, combining cavity ring-down spectroscopy (CRDS, λ = 405 nm) with a Bessel beam trap (λ = 532 nm) in tandem with phase function (PF) measurements. This approach allows direct measurements of the changing optical cross sections of individual aerosol particles over indefinite time-frames facilitating some of the most comprehensive measurements of the optical properties of aerosol particles so far made. Using volatile 1,2,6-hexanetriol droplets, Qext is measured over a continuous radius range with the measured Qext envelope well described by fitted cavity standing wave (CSW) Mie simulations. These fits allow the refractive index at 405 nm to be determined. Measurements are also presented of Qext variation with RH for two hygroscopic aqueous inorganic systems ((NH4)2SO4 and NaNO3). For the PF and the CSW Mie simulations, the refractive index, nλ, is parameterised in terms of the particle radius. The radius and refractive index at 532 nm are determined from PFs, while the refractive index at 405 nm is determined by comparison of the measured Qext to CSW Mie simulations. The refractive indices determined at the shorter wavelength are larger than at the longer wavelength consistent with the expected dispersion behaviour. The measured values at 405 nm are compared to estimates from volume mixing and molar refraction mixing rules, with the latter giving superior agreement. In addition, the first single-particle Qext measurements for accumulation mode aerosol are presented for droplets with radii as small as ∼300 nm.

High Sensitivity Refractive Index Sensor Based on Dual-Core Photonic Crystal Fiber with Hexagonal Lattice.

PubMed

Wang, Haiyang; Yan, Xin; Li, Shuguang; An, Guowen; Zhang, Xuenan

2016-10-08

A refractive index sensor based on dual-core photonic crystal fiber (PCF) with hexagonal lattice is proposed. The effects of geometrical parameters of the PCF on performances of the sensor are investigated by using the finite element method (FEM). Two fiber cores are separated by two air holes filled with the analyte whose refractive index is in the range of 1.33-1.41. Numerical simulation results show that the highest sensitivity can be up to 22,983 nm/RIU(refractive index unit) when the analyte refractive index is 1.41. The lowest sensitivity can reach to 21,679 nm/RIU when the analyte refractive index is 1.33. The sensor we proposed has significant advantages in the field of biomolecule detection as it provides a wide-range of detection with high sensitivity.

High Sensitivity Refractive Index Sensor Based on Dual-Core Photonic Crystal Fiber with Hexagonal Lattice

PubMed Central

Wang, Haiyang; Yan, Xin; Li, Shuguang; An, Guowen; Zhang, Xuenan

2016-01-01

A refractive index sensor based on dual-core photonic crystal fiber (PCF) with hexagonal lattice is proposed. The effects of geometrical parameters of the PCF on performances of the sensor are investigated by using the finite element method (FEM). Two fiber cores are separated by two air holes filled with the analyte whose refractive index is in the range of 1.33–1.41. Numerical simulation results show that the highest sensitivity can be up to 22,983 nm/RIU(refractive index unit) when the analyte refractive index is 1.41. The lowest sensitivity can reach to 21,679 nm/RIU when the analyte refractive index is 1.33. The sensor we proposed has significant advantages in the field of biomolecule detection as it provides a wide-range of detection with high sensitivity. PMID:27740607

Refractive index measurement based on confocal method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

An, Zhe; Xu, XiPing; Yang, JinHua; Qiao, Yang; Liu, Yang

2017-10-01

The development of transparent materials is closed to optoelectronic technology. It plays an increasingly important role in various fields. It is not only widely used in optical lens, optical element, optical fiber grating, optoelectronics, but also widely used in the building material, pharmaceutical industry with vessel, aircraft windshield and daily wear glasses.Regard of solving the problem of refractive index measurement in optical transparent materials. We proposed that using the polychromatic confocal method to measuring the refractive index of transparent materials. In this article, we describes the principle of polychromatic confocal method for measuring the refractive index of glass,and sketched the optical system and its optimization. Then we establish the measurement model of the refractive index, and set up the experimental system. In this way, the refractive index of the glass has been calibrated for refractive index experiment. Due to the error in the experimental process, we manipulated the experiment data to compensate the refractive index measurement formula. The experiment taking the quartz glass for instance. The measurement accuracy of the refractive index of the glass is +/-1.8×10-5. This method is more practical and accurate, especially suitable for non-contact measurement occasions, which environmental requirements is not high. Environmental requirements are not high, the ordinary glass production line up to the ambient temperature can be fully adapted. There is no need for the color of the measured object that you can measure the white and a variety of colored glass.

Application of refractometry to quality assurance monitoring of parenteral nutrition solutions.

PubMed

Chang, Wei-Kuo; Chao, You-Chen; Yeh, Ming-Kung

2008-01-01

Parenteral nutrition (PN) solution contains various concentrations of dextrose, amino acids, lipids, vitamins, electrolytes, and trace elements. Incorrect preparation of PN solution could lead to patient death. In this study we used the refractive index as a quality assurance tool to monitor the preparation of PN solution. Refractive indices of single nutrient components and PN solutions consisting of various concentrations of dextrose, amino acids, electrolytes, and lipids were measured. A mathematical equation and its linear plot were generated then used to predict the refractive index of the PN solution. The best-fit refractive index for PN solution (i.e., the predicted refractive index)=0.9798x(% dextrose)+1.2889x(% amino acids)+1.1017x(% lipids)+0.9440x(% sum of the electrolytes)+0.5367 (r2=0.99). This equation was validated by comparing the measured refractive indices of 500 clinical PN solutions to their predicted refractive indices. We found that 2 of the 500 prepared samples (0.4%) had less than the predicted refractive index (<95%). Refractive index can be used as a reliable quality assurance tool for monitoring PN preparation. Such information can be obtained at the bedside and used to confirm the accuracy of the PN solution composition.

Effective holographic recordings in the photopolymer nanocomposites with functionalized silica nanoparticle and polyurethane matrix

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Han, Samsook; Lee, Muncheul; Kim, Byung Kyu

2011-11-01

Effective holographic nanocomposites were developed by the surface-functionalized silica nanoparticles and two acrylate monomers/polyurethane (PU) matrix polymer. The functionalization was done with silane compounds carrying long alkyl chain or vinyl group. We evaluated the holographic nanocomposite films by the diffraction efficiency, volume shrinkage, optical loss, and the film morphology. It was found that acrylate monomers/PU system gave higher diffraction efficiency than those of two monomers due to the high refractive index mismatch between the acrylate-rich and PU-rich regions. With the modification of silica particle, up to 35% of particle loading was possible to give a maximum diffraction efficiency of 93.6% for a film of 20 μm in thickness, along with improved refractive index modulation and the sensitivity.

Expressions for the spherical-wave-structure function based on a bump spectrum model for the index of refraction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Richardson, Christina E.; Andrews, Larry C.

1991-07-01

New spectra models have recently been developed for the spatial power spectra of temperature and refractive index fluctuations in the atmospheric boundary layer showing the characteristic 'bump' just prior to the dissipation ranges. Theoretical work involving these new models has led to new expressions for the phase structure function associated with a plane optical wave, although most experimental work has involved spherical waves. Following techniques similar to those used for the plane wave analysis, new expressions valid in geometrical and diffraction regimes are developed here for the phase structure function of a spherical optical wave propagating through clear-air atmospheric turbulence. Useful asymptotic formulas for small separation distances and the inertial subrange are derived from these general expressions.

Determination of refractive index of a simple negative, positive, or zero power lens using wedged plated interferometer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shukla, R. P.; Perera, G. M.; George, M. C.; Venkateswarlu, P.

1990-01-01

A nondestructive technique for measuring the refractive index of a negative lens using a wedged plate interferometer is described. The method can be also used for measuring the refractive index of convex or zero power lenses. Schematic diagrams are presented for the use of a wedged plate interferometer for measuring the refractive index of a concave lens and of a convex lens.

Refractive-index profiling of embedded microstructures in optical materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dave, Digant P.; Milner, Thomas E.

2002-04-01

We describe use of a phase-sensitive low-coherence reflectometer to measure spatial variation of refractive index in optical materials. The described interferometric technique is demonstrated to be a valuable tool to profile the refractive index of optical elements such as integrated waveguides and photowritten optical microstructures. As an example, a refractive-index profile is mapped of a microstructure written in a microscope glass slide with an ultrashort-pulse laser.

Three-dimensional inverse problem of geometrical optics: a mathematical comparison between Fermat's principle and the eikonal equation.

PubMed

Borghero, Francesco; Demontis, Francesco

2016-09-01

In the framework of geometrical optics, we consider the following inverse problem: given a two-parameter family of curves (congruence) (i.e., f(x,y,z)=c₁,g(x,y,z)=c₂), construct the refractive-index distribution function n=n(x,y,z) of a 3D continuous transparent inhomogeneous isotropic medium, allowing for the creation of the given congruence as a family of monochromatic light rays. We solve this problem by following two different procedures: 1. By applying Fermat's principle, we establish a system of two first-order linear nonhomogeneous PDEs in the unique unknown function n=n(x,y,z) relating the assigned congruence of rays with all possible refractive-index profiles compatible with this family. Moreover, we furnish analytical proof that the family of rays must be a normal congruence. 2. By applying the eikonal equation, we establish a second system of two first-order linear homogeneous PDEs whose solutions give the equation S(x,y,z)=const. of the geometric wavefronts and, consequently, all pertinent refractive-index distribution functions n=n(x,y,z). Finally, we make a comparison between the two procedures described above, discussing appropriate examples having exact solutions.

A refractive index sensor based on taper Michelson interferometer in multimode fiber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fu, Xinghu; Zhang, Jiangpeng; Wang, Siwen; Fu, Guangwei; Liu, Qiang; Jin, Wa; Bi, Weihong

2016-11-01

A refractive index sensor based on taper Michelson interferometer in multimode fiber is proposed. The Hydrofluoric acid corrosion processing is studied in the preparation of single cone multimode optical fiber sensor. The taper Michelson interferometer is fabricated by changing corrosion time. The relationship between fiber sensor feature and corrosion time is analyzed. The experimental results show that the interference spectrum shift in the direction of short wave with the increase of the refractive index. The refractive index sensitivity can reach 115.8008 nm/RIU. Thereby, it can be used in detecting the refractive index in different areas including the environmental protection, health care and food production.

Polymer microfiber bridging Bi-tapered refractive index sensor based on evanescent field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lv, Ri-Qing; Wang, Qi; Wang, Bo-Tao; Liu, Yu; Kong, Lingxin

2018-05-01

A PDMS/graphene enhanced PMMA micro optical waveguide sensor is reported in terms of fabrication method and optical characteristics. The micro optical waveguide with a diameter of 6 μm and a length of 800 μm is used as the sensing probe to realize refractive index (RI) measurement suspended in NaCl solutions with different concentrations. Experimental results show that the refractive index sensing sensitivity can reach 2027.97 nm/RIU within the refractive index ranging from 1.3333-1.3426. Research results show that PMMA/graphene micro optical waveguide doped with PDMS is an excellent high sensitive sensing technology in refractive index detection field.

Highly sensitive refractive index fiber inline Mach-Zehnder interferometer fabricated by femtosecond laser micromachining and chemical etching

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sun, Xiao-Yan; Chu, Dong-Kai; Dong, Xin-Ran; Zhou, Chu; Li, Hai-Tao; Luo-Zhi; Hu, You-Wang; Zhou, Jian-Ying; Cong-Wang; Duan, Ji-An

2016-03-01

A High sensitive refractive index (RI) sensor based on Mach-Zehnder interferometer (MZI) in a conventional single-mode optical fiber is proposed, which is fabricated by femtosecond laser transversal-scanning inscription method and chemical etching. A rectangular cavity structure is formed in part of fiber core and cladding interface. The MZI sensor shows excellent refractive index sensitivity and linearity, which exhibits an extremely high RI sensitivity of -17197 nm/RIU (refractive index unit) with the linearity of 0.9996 within the refractive index range of 1.3371-1.3407. The experimental results are consistent with theoretical analysis.

Investigation of the refractive index repeatability for tantalum pentoxide coatings, prepared by physical vapor film deposition techniques.

PubMed

Stenzel, O; Wilbrandt, S; Wolf, J; Schürmann, M; Kaiser, N; Ristau, D; Ehlers, H; Carstens, F; Schippel, S; Mechold, L; Rauhut, R; Kennedy, M; Bischoff, M; Nowitzki, T; Zöller, A; Hagedorn, H; Reus, H; Hegemann, T; Starke, K; Harhausen, J; Foest, R; Schumacher, J

2017-02-01

Random effects in the repeatability of refractive index and absorption edge position of tantalum pentoxide layers prepared by plasma-ion-assisted electron-beam evaporation, ion beam sputtering, and magnetron sputtering are investigated and quantified. Standard deviations in refractive index between 4*10^-4 and 4*10^-3 have been obtained. Here, lowest standard deviations in refractive index close to our detection threshold could be achieved by both ion beam sputtering and plasma-ion-assisted deposition. In relation to the corresponding mean values, the standard deviations in band-edge position and refractive index are of similar order.

Response to Comment on "Cell nuclei have lower refractive index and mass density than cytoplasm": A Comment on "How a phase image of a cell with nucleus refractive index smaller than that of the cytoplasm should look like?", e201800033.

PubMed

Müller, Paul; Guck, Jochen

2018-05-02

In a recent study entitled "Cell nuclei have lower refractive index and mass density than cytoplasm," we provided strong evidence indicating that the nuclear refractive index (RI) is lower than the RI of the cytoplasm for several cell lines. In a complementary study in 2017, entitled "Is the nuclear refractive index lower than cytoplasm? Validation of phase measurements and implications for light scattering technologies," Steelman et al. observed a lower nuclear RI also for other cell lines and ruled out methodological error sources such as phase wrapping and scattering effects. Recently, Yurkin composed a comment on these 2 publications, entitled "How a phase image of a cell with nucleus refractive index smaller than that of the cytoplasm should look like?," putting into question the methods used for measuring the cellular and nuclear RI in the aforementioned publications by suggesting that a lower nuclear RI would produce a characteristic dip in the measured phase profile in situ. We point out the difficulty of identifying this dip in the presence of other cell organelles, noise, or blurring due to the imaging point spread function. Furthermore, we mitigate Yurkin's concerns regarding the ability of the simple-transmission approximation to compare cellular and nuclear RI by analyzing a set of phase images with a novel, scattering-based approach. We conclude that the absence of a characteristic dip in the measured phase profiles does not contradict the usage of the simple-transmission approximation for the determination of the average cellular or nuclear RI. Our response can be regarded as an addition to the response by Steelman, Eldridge and Wax. We kindly ask the reader to attend to their thorough ascertainment prior to reading our response. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Low cost fiber optic sensing of sugar solution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Muthuraju, M. E.; Patlolla, Anurag Reddy; Vadakkapattu Canthadai, Badrinath; Pachava, Vengalrao

2015-03-01

The demand for highly sensitive and reliable sensors to assess the refractive index of liquid get many applications in chemical and biomedical areas. Indeed, the physical parameters such as concentration, pressure and density, etc., can be found using the refractive index of liquid. In contrast to the conventional refractometer for measurement, optical fiber sensor has several advantages like remote sensing, small in size, low cost, immune to EMI etc., In this paper we have discussed determination of refractive index of sugar solution using optical fiber. An intensity modulated low cost plastic fiber optic refractive index sensor has been designed for the study. The sensor is based on principle of change in angle of reflected light caused by refractive index change of the medium surrounding the fiber. The experimental results obtained for the sugar solution of different refractive indices prove that the fiber optic sensor is cable of measuring the refractive indices as well as the concentrations.

Laser interferometry of the hydrolytic changes in protein solutions: the refractive index and hydration shells.

PubMed

Sarimov, R M; Matveyeva, T A; Binhi, V N

2018-05-11

Using an original laser interferometer of enhanced sensitivity, an increase in the refractive index of a protein solution was observed during the reaction of proteolysis catalyzed by pepsin. The increase in the refractive index of the protein solution at a concentration of 4 mg/ml was [Formula: see text] for bovine serum albumin and [Formula: see text] for lysozyme. The observed effect disproves the existing idea that the refractive index of protein solutions is determined only by their amino acid composition and concentration. It is shown that the refractive index also depends on the state of protein fragmentation. A mathematical model of proteolysis and a real-time method for estimating the state of protein hydration based on the measurement of refractive index during the reaction are proposed. A good agreement between the experimental and calculated time dependences of the refractive index shows that the growth of the surface of protein fragments and the change in the number of hydration cavities during proteolysis can be responsible for the observed effect.

Refractive index and thickness determination in Langmuir monolayers of myelin lipids.

PubMed

Pusterla, Julio M; Malfatti-Gasperini, Antonio A; Puentes-Martinez, Ximena E; Cavalcanti, Leide P; Oliveira, Rafael G

2017-05-01

Langmuir monolayers at the air/water interface are widely used as biomembrane models and for amphiphilic molecules studies in general. Under controlled intermolecular organization (lateral molecular area), surface pressure, surface potential, reflectivity (R) and other magnitudes can be precisely determined on these planar monomolecular films. However, some physical parameters such as the refractive index of the monolayer (n) still remain elusive. The refractive index is very relevant because (in combination with R) it allows for the determination of the thickness of the film. The uncertainties of n determine important errors that propagate non-linearly into the calculation of monolayers thickness. Here we present an analytical method for the determination of n in monolayers based on refractive index matching. By using a Brewster angle microscopy (BAM) setup and monolayers spread over subphases with variable refractive index (n 2 ), a minimum in R is search as a function of n 2 . In these conditions, n equals n 2 . The results shown correspond to monolayers of myelin lipids. The n values remain constant at 1.46 upon compression and equals the obtained value for myelin lipid bilayers in suspension. The values for n and R allow for the determination of thickness. We establish comparisons between these thicknesses for the monolayer and those obtained from two X-ray scattering techniques: 1) GIXOS for monolayers at the air/water interface and 2) SAXS for bilayers in bulk suspension. This allows us to conclude that the thickness that we measure by BAM includes the apolar and polar headgroup regions of the monolayer. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Effect of antimony (Sb) addition on the linear and non-linear optical properties of amorphous Ge-Te-Sb thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kumar, P.; Kaur, J.; Tripathi, S. K.; Sharma, I.

2017-12-01

Non-crystalline thin films of Ge20Te80-xSbx (x = 0, 2, 4, 6, 10) systems were deposited on glass substrate using thermal evaporation technique. The optical coefficients were accurately determined by transmission spectra using Swanepoel envelope method in the spectral region of 400-1600 nm. The refractive index was found to increase from 2.38 to 2.62 with the corresponding increase in Sb content over the entire spectral range. The dispersion of refractive index was discussed in terms of the single oscillator Wemple-DiDomenico model. Tauc relation for the allowed indirect transition showed decrease in optical band gap. To explore non-linearity, the spectral dependence of third order susceptibility of a-Ge-Te-Sb thin films was evaluated from change of index of refraction using Miller's rule. Susceptibility values were found to enhance rapidly from 10-13 to 10-12 (esu), with the red shift in the absorption edge. Non-linear refractive index was calculated by Fourier and Snitzer formula. The values were of the order of 10-12 esu. At telecommunication wavelength, these non-linear refractive index values showed three orders higher than that of silica glass. Dielectric constant and optical conductivity were also reported. The prepared Sb doped thin films on glass substrate with observed improved functional properties have a noble prospect in the application of nonlinear optical devices and might be used for a high speed communication fiber. Non-linear parameters showed good agreement with the values given in the literature.

Optical negative refraction by four-wave mixing in thin metallic nanostructures.

PubMed

Palomba, Stefano; Zhang, Shuang; Park, Yongshik; Bartal, Guy; Yin, Xiaobo; Zhang, Xiang

2011-10-30

The law of refraction first derived by Snellius and later introduced as the Huygens-Fermat principle, states that the incidence and refracted angles of a light wave at the interface of two different materials are related to the ratio of the refractive indices in each medium. Whereas all natural materials have a positive refractive index and therefore exhibit refraction in the positive direction, artificially engineered negative index metamaterials have been shown capable of bending light waves negatively. Such a negative refractive index is the key to achieving a perfect lens that is capable of imaging well below the diffraction limit. However, negative index metamaterials are typically lossy, narrow band, and require complicated fabrication processes. Recently, an alternative approach to obtain negative refraction from a very thin nonlinear film has been proposed and experimentally demonstrated in the microwave region. However, such approaches use phase conjugation, which makes optical implementations difficult. Here, we report a simple but different scheme to demonstrate experimentally nonlinear negative refraction at optical frequencies using four-wave mixing in nanostructured metal films. The refractive index can be designed at will by simply tuning the wavelengths of the interacting waves, which could have potential impact on many important applications, such as superlens imaging.

Image Information Obtained Using a Charge-Coupled Device (CCD) Camera During an Immersion Liquid Evaporation Process for Measuring the Refractive Index of Solid Particles.

PubMed

Niskanen, Ilpo; Sutinen, Veijo; Thungström, Göran; Räty, Jukka

2018-06-01

The refractive index is a fundamental physical property of a medium, which can be used for the identification and purity issues of all media. Here we describe a refractive index measurement technique to determine simultaneously the refractive index of different solid particles by monitoring the transmittance of light from a suspension using a charge-coupled device (CCD) camera. An important feature of the measurement is the liquid evaporation process for the refractive index matching of the solid particle and the immersion liquid; this was realized by using a pair of volatile and non-volatile immersion liquids. In this study, refractive indices of calcium fluoride (CaF 2 ) and barium fluoride (BaF 2 ) were determined using the proposed method.

Mixed effects modelling for glass category estimation from glass refractive indices.

PubMed

Lucy, David; Zadora, Grzegorz

2011-10-10

520 Glass fragments were taken from 105 glass items. Each item was either a container, a window, or glass from an automobile. Each of these three classes of use are defined as glass categories. Refractive indexes were measured both before, and after a programme of re-annealing. Because the refractive index of each fragment could not in itself be observed before and after re-annealing, a model based approach was used to estimate the change in refractive index for each glass category. It was found that less complex estimation methods would be equivalent to the full model, and were subsequently used. The change in refractive index was then used to calculate a measure of the evidential value for each item belonging to each glass category. The distributions of refractive index change were considered for each glass category, and it was found that, possibly due to small samples, members of the normal family would not adequately model the refractive index changes within two of the use types considered here. Two alternative approaches to modelling the change in refractive index were used, one employed more established kernel density estimates, the other a newer approach called log-concave estimation. Either method when applied to the change in refractive index was found to give good estimates of glass category, however, on all performance metrics kernel density estimates were found to be slightly better than log-concave estimates, although the estimates from log-concave estimation prossessed properties which had some qualitative appeal not encapsulated in the selected measures of performance. These results and implications of these two methods of estimating probability densities for glass refractive indexes are discussed. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.

Gradient polymer network liquid crystal with a large refractive index change.

PubMed

Ren, Hongwen; Xu, Su; Wu, Shin-Tson

2012-11-19

A simple approach for preparing gradient polymer network liquid crystal (PNLC) with a large refractive index change is demonstrated. To control the effective refractive index at a given cell position, we applied a voltage to a homogeneous cell containing LC/diacrylate monomer mixture to generate the desired tilt angle and then stabilize the LC orientation with UV-induced polymer network. By varying the applied voltage along with the cells' movement, a PNLC with a gradient refractive index distribution is obtained. In comparison with conventional approaches using patterned photomask or electrode, our method offers following advantages: large refractive index change, freedom to design specific index profile, and large panel capability. Potential applications include tunable-focus lenses, prism gratings, phase modulators, and other adaptive photonic devices.

Ultrasensitive Magnetic Field Sensing Based on Refractive-Index-Matched Coupling.

PubMed

Rao, Jie; Pu, Shengli; Yao, Tianjun; Su, Delong

2017-07-07

An ultrasensitive magnetic field sensor is proposed and investigated experimentally. The no-core fiber is fusion-spliced between two pieces of single-mode fibers and then immersed in magnetic fluid with an appropriate value of refractive index. Under the refractive-index-matched coupling condition, the guided mode becomes leaky and a coupling wavelength dip in the transmission spectrum of the structure is observed. The coupling wavelength dip is extremely sensitive to the ambient environment. The excellent sensitivity to the refractive index is measured to be 116.681 μm/RIU (refractive index unit) in the refractive index range of 1.45691-1.45926. For the as-fabricated sensors, the highest magnetic field sensing sensitivities of 6.33 and 1.83 nm/mT are achieved at low and high fields, respectively. The sensitivity is considerably enhanced compared with those of previously designed, similar structures.

Theoretical study of polarization insensitivity of carrier-induced refractive index change of multiple quantum well.

PubMed

Miao, Qingyuan; Zhou, Qunjie; Cui, Jun; He, Ping-An; Huang, Dexiu

2014-12-29

Characteristics of polarization insensitivity of carrier-induced refractive index change of 1.55 μm tensile-strained multiple quantum well (MQW) are theoretically investigated. A comprehensive MQW model is proposed to effectively extend the application range of previous models. The model considers the temperature variation as well as the nonuniform distribution of injected carrier in MQW. Tensile-strained MQW is expected to achieve polarization insensitivity of carrier-induced refractive index change over a wide wavelength range as temperature varies from 0°C to 40°C, while the magnitude of refractive index change keeps a large value (more than 3 × 10^-3). And that the polarization insensitivity of refractive index change can maintain for a wide range of carrier concentration. Multiple quantum well with different material and structure parameters is anticipated to have the similar polarization insensitivity of refractive index change, which shows the design flexibility.

Refractive index and temperature sensing in anisotropic silver nanostructures with stable photo-physical properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Biswas, Subrata; Kumbhakar, Pathik

2018-01-01

In this report, we have demonstrated the refractive index and temperature-sensing abilities of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP)-protected silver nanostructures of triangular, connected and plate-like shapes. Interestingly, these nanostructures even after 2 and ½ years of syntheses showed plasmonic-sensing ability of temperature in the temperature range of 283-333 K. Also, refractive index (R.I.) sensing has been demonstrated in the aged samples and obtained the highest R.I. sensitivity of 306 nm/RIU in one of the sample. The synthesized samples have been kept in dark (inside desiccators) intentionally for the extended period of 2 and ½ years after synthesis and monitored intermittently their UV-Vis absorption and photoluminescence (PL) emission characteristics to check the functionally of the aged silver nanostructures. It has been found the samples remain well dispersed in different solvents and can forbid agglomeration even in 0.25 M NaCl solution. We have also demonstrated here fabrication of a flexible and transparent thin film of the synthesized samples in polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) matrix and investigated its low power continuous-wave (CW) nonlinear optical properties using spatial self-phase modulation (SSPM) technique. The nonlinear refractive index ( n 2) value of the film has been determined to be 5.6 × 10- 6 cm2/W at the He-Ne laser wavelength of 632.8 nm. In this report we have demonstrated temperature and R.I. sensing and also it has been demonstrated that the synthesized samples remain functional even after 2 and ½ years of synthesis. Also, samples may find potential applications in nonlinear optical phase modulation devices.

Path profiles of Cn2 derived from radiometer temperature measurements and geometrical ray tracing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vyhnalek, Brian E.

2017-02-01

Atmospheric turbulence has significant impairments on the operation of Free-Space Optical (FSO) communication systems, in particular temporal and spatial intensity fluctuations at the receiving aperture resulting in power surges and fades, changes in angle of arrival, spatial coherence degradation, etc. The refractive index structure parameter C 2 n is a statistical measure of the strength of turbulence in the atmosphere and is highly dependent upon vertical height. Therefore to understand atmospheric turbulence effects on vertical FSO communication links such as space-to-ground links, it is necessary to specify C 2 n profiles along the atmospheric propagation path. To avoid the limitations on the applicability of classical approaches, propagation simulation through geometrical ray tracing is applied. This is achieved by considering the atmosphere along the optical propagation path as a spatial distribution of spherical bubbles with varying relative refractive index deviations representing turbulent eddies. The relative deviations of the refractive index are statistically determined from altitude-dependent and time varying temperature fluctuations, as measured by a microwave profiling radiometer. For each representative atmosphere ray paths are analyzed using geometrical optics, which is particularly advantageous in situations of strong turbulence where there is severe wavefront distortion and discontinuity. The refractive index structure parameter is then determined as a function of height and time.

Path Profiles of Cn2 Derived from Radiometer Temperature Measurements and Geometrical Ray Tracing

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Vyhnalek, Brian E.

2017-01-01

Atmospheric turbulence has significant impairments on the operation of Free-Space Optical (FSO) communication systems, in particular temporal and spatial intensity fluctuations at the receiving aperture resulting in power surges and fades, changes in angle of arrival, spatial coherence degradation, etc. The refractive index structure parameter Cn2 is a statistical measure of the strength of turbulence in the atmosphere and is highly dependent upon vertical height. Therefore to understand atmospheric turbulence effects on vertical FSO communication links such as space-to-ground links, it is necessary to specify Cn2 profiles along the atmospheric propagation path. To avoid the limitations on the applicability of classical approaches, propagation simulation through geometrical ray tracing is applied. This is achieved by considering the atmosphere along the optical propagation path as a spatial distribution of spherical bubbles with varying relative refractive index deviations representing turbulent eddies. The relative deviations of the refractive index are statistically determined from altitude-dependent and time-varying temperature fluctuations, as measured by a microwave profiling radiometer. For each representative atmosphere ray paths are analyzed using geometrical optics, which is particularly advantageous in situations of strong turbulence where there is severe wavefront distortion and discontinuity. The refractive index structure parameter is then determined as a function of height and time.

Method and apparatus for determining peak temperature along an optical fiber

DOEpatents

Fox, Richard J.

1985-01-01

The invention relates to a new method and new apparatus for determining the hottest temperature or the coldest temperature prevailing along the length of an optical-fiber light guide. The invention is conducted with an optical fiber capable of supporting multidiode propagation of light and comprising a core, a cladding, and a jacket. The core is selected to have (1) a higher refractive index than the core and the cladding and (2) a relatively high negative temperature coefficient of refractive index. A light beam capable of establishing substantially single-mode propagation in the core is launched into an end thereof at an angle to the axis. The angle is increased to effect the onset of light refraction from the core into the cladding. The value of the launch angle corresponding to the onset is determined and then used to establish the refractive index of the core corresponding to the onset angle. The maximum temperature prevailing along the fiber then is determined from the (1) refractive index so determined and (2) the temperature coefficient of refractive index for the core. The invention is based on the finding that the launch angle corresponding to the onset of refraction into the cladding is uniquely determined by the maximum value of the ratio of the core refractive index to the cladding refractive index, which maximum occurs at the hottest point along the fiber.

The eye lens: age-related trends and individual variations in refractive index and shape parameters.

PubMed

Pierscionek, Barbara; Bahrami, Mehdi; Hoshino, Masato; Uesugi, Kentaro; Regini, Justyn; Yagi, Naoto

2015-10-13

The eye lens grows throughout life by cell accrual on its surface and can change shape to adjust the focussing power of the eye. Varying concentrations of proteins in successive cell layers create a refractive index gradient. The continued growth of the lens and age-related changes in proteins render it less able to alter shape with loss of capacity by the end of the sixth decade of life. Growth and protein ageing alter the refractive index but as accurate measurement of this parameter is difficult, the nature of such alterations remains uncertain. The most accurate method to date for measuring refractive index in intact lenses has been developed at the SPring-8 synchrotron. The technique, based on Talbot interferometry, has an X-ray source and was used to measure refractive index in sixty-six human lenses, aged from 16 to 91 years. Height and width were measured for forty-five lenses. Refractive index contours show decentration in some older lenses but individual variations mask age-related trends. Refractive index profiles along the optic axis have relatively flat central sections with distinct micro-fluctuations and a steep gradient in the cortex but do not exhibit an age-related trend. The refractive index profiles in the equatorial aspect show statistical significance with age, particularly for lenses below the age of sixty that had capacity to alter shape in vivo. The maximum refractive index in the lens centre decreases slightly with age with considerable scatter in the data and there are age-related variations in sagittal thickness and equatorial height.

The eye lens: age-related trends and individual variations in refractive index and shape parameters

PubMed Central

Pierscionek, Barbara; Bahrami, Mehdi; Hoshino, Masato; Uesugi, Kentaro; Regini, Justyn; Yagi, Naoto

2015-01-01

The eye lens grows throughout life by cell accrual on its surface and can change shape to adjust the focussing power of the eye. Varying concentrations of proteins in successive cell layers create a refractive index gradient. The continued growth of the lens and age-related changes in proteins render it less able to alter shape with loss of capacity by the end of the sixth decade of life. Growth and protein ageing alter the refractive index but as accurate measurement of this parameter is difficult, the nature of such alterations remains uncertain. The most accurate method to date for measuring refractive index in intact lenses has been developed at the SPring-8 synchrotron. The technique, based on Talbot interferometry, has an X-ray source and was used to measure refractive index in sixty-six human lenses, aged from 16 to 91 years. Height and width were measured for forty-five lenses. Refractive index contours show decentration in some older lenses but individual variations mask age-related trends. Refractive index profiles along the optic axis have relatively flat central sections with distinct micro-fluctuations and a steep gradient in the cortex but do not exhibit an age-related trend. The refractive index profiles in the equatorial aspect show statistical significance with age, particularly for lenses below the age of sixty that had capacity to alter shape in vivo. The maximum refractive index in the lens centre decreases slightly with age with considerable scatter in the data and there are age-related variations in sagittal thickness and equatorial height. PMID:26416418

The Algorithm Theoretical Basis Document for the Atmospheric Delay Correction to GLAS Laser Altimeter Ranges. Volume 8

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Herring, Thomas A.; Quinn, Katherine J.

2012-01-01

NASA s Ice, Cloud, and Land Elevation Satellite (ICESat) mission will be launched late 2001. It s primary instrument is the Geoscience Laser Altimeter System (GLAS) instrument. The main purpose of this instrument is to measure elevation changes of the Greenland and Antarctic icesheets. To accurately measure the ranges it is necessary to correct for the atmospheric delay of the laser pulses. The atmospheric delay depends on the integral of the refractive index along the path that the laser pulse travels through the atmosphere. The refractive index of air at optical wavelengths is a function of density and molecular composition. For ray paths near zenith and closed form equations for the refractivity, the atmospheric delay can be shown to be directly related to surface pressure and total column precipitable water vapor. For ray paths off zenith a mapping function relates the delay to the zenith delay. The closed form equations for refractivity recommended by the International Union of Geodesy and Geophysics (IUGG) are optimized for ground based geodesy techniques and in the next section we will consider whether these equations are suitable for satellite laser altimetry.

Effects of film thickness on the linear and nonlinear refractive index of p-type SnO films deposited by e-beam evaporation process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

El-Gendy, Y. A.

2017-12-01

Tin monoxide (SnO) films of different thickness have been deposited onto glass substrates at vacuum pressure of ∼ 8 × 10-6 mbar using an e-beam evaporation system. A hot probe test revealed that the deposited films showed p-type conduction. The structure characterization and phase purity of the deposited films was confirmed using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy. The optical transmission and reflection spectra of the deposited films recorded in the wavelength range 190-2500 nm were used to calculate the optical constants employing the Murmann's exact equations. The refractive index dispersion was adequately described by the well-known effective-single-oscillator model proposed by Wemple-DiDomenico, whereby the dispersion parameters were calculated. The nonlinear refractive index and nonlinear optical susceptibility of the deposited films were successfully evaluated using the Miller empirical relations. The lattice dielectric constant and the carrier concentration to the effective mass ratio were also calculated as a function of film thickness using the Spitzer and Fan model. The variation of the optical band gap of the deposited films as a function of film thickness was also presented.

Narrow groove plasmonic nano-gratings for surface plasmon resonance sensing

PubMed Central

Dhawan, Anuj; Canva, Michael; Vo-Dinh, Tuan

2011-01-01

We present a novel surface plasmon resonance (SPR) configuration based on narrow groove (sub-15 nm) plasmonic nano-gratings such that normally incident radiation can be coupled into surface plasmons without the use of prism-coupling based total internal reflection, as in the classical Kretschmann configuration. This eliminates the angular dependence requirements of SPR-based sensing and allows development of robust miniaturized SPR sensors. Simulations based on Rigorous Coupled Wave Analysis (RCWA) were carried out to numerically calculate the reflectance - from different gold and silver nano-grating structures - as a function of the localized refractive index of the media around the SPR nano-gratings as well as the incident radiation wavelength and angle of incidence. Our calculations indicate substantially higher differential reflectance signals, on localized change of refractive index in the narrow groove plasmonic gratings, as compared to those obtained from conventional SPR-based sensing systems. Furthermore, these calculations allow determination of the optimal nano-grating geometric parameters - i. e. nanoline periodicity, spacing between the nanolines, as well as the height of the nanolines in the nano-grating - for highest sensitivity to localized change of refractive index, as would occur due to binding of a biomolecule target to a functionalized nano-grating surface. PMID:21263620

Very low-refractive-index optical thin films consisting of an array of SiO2 nanorods

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xi, J.-Q.; Kim, Jong Kyu; Schubert, E. F.; Ye, Dexian; Lu, T.-M.; Lin, Shawn-Yu; Juneja, Jasbir S.

2006-03-01

The refractive-index contrast in dielectric multilayer structures, optical resonators, and photonic crystals is an important figure of merit that creates a strong demand for high-quality thin films with a low refractive index. A SiO2 nanorod layer with low refractive index of n=1.08, to our knowledge the lowest ever reported in thin-film materials, is grown by oblique-angle electron-beam deposition of SiO2. A single-pair distributed Bragg reflector employing a SiO2 nanorod layer is demonstrated to have enhanced reflectivity, showing the great potential of low-refractive-index films for applications in photonic structures and devices.

Metamaterials with gradient negative index of refraction.

PubMed

Pinchuk, Anatoliy O; Schatz, George C

2007-10-01

We propose a new metamaterial with a gradient negative index of refraction, which can focus a collimated beam of light coming from a distant object. A slab of the negative refractive index metamaterial has a focal length that can be tuned by changing the gradient of the negative refractive index. A thin metal film pierced with holes of appropriate size or spacing between them can be used as a metamaterial with the gradient negative index of refraction. We use finite-difference time-domain calculations to show the focusing of a plane electromagnetic wave passing through a system of equidistantly spaced holes in a metal slab with decreasing diameters toward the edges of the slab.

Photo-Induced Self-Condensation, A Technique For Fabricating Organic Lightguide Structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Franke, H.; Heuer, W.

1986-11-01

Planar lightguides have been fabricated from mixtures of the polymer PMMA with benzoin type photoinitiators. Using conventional UV-photolithography 2 dimensional refractive index patterns were recorded in the polymer films. Thickness and refractive index of the organic lightguides were determined by m-line spectroscopy. The achieved refractive index changes increased with increasing photoinitiator concentrations. For high concentrations (< 70 %) the film refractive index could be increased via UV exposure by Δn = 0.03. Thermal treatment at below 100°C caused the out diffusion of the unexposed photoinitiator and completion of the photochemically induced reaction in the exposed parts of the film. Thus refractive index patterns (Δn < 0.05) could be developed and fixed.

Refractive index sensing by Brillouin scattering in side-polished optical fibers.

PubMed

Bernini, Romeo; Persichetti, Gianluca; Catalano, Ester; Zeni, Luigi; Minardo, Aldo

2018-05-15

In this Letter, we demonstrate the possibility to measure the refractive index of a liquid, using the stimulating Brillouin scattering in a 3-cm-long side-polished optical fiber. In addition, we show that by depositing a high-refractive index layer on the polished surface the sensitivity of the Brillouin frequency shift (BFS) can be increased due to a higher penetration of the evanescent field in the outer medium. Experiments show a maximum BFS change of about 11 MHz when varying the refractive index of the external medium from 1 (air) to 1.402, and a BFS sensitivity to refractive index of about 293 MHz/RIU around 1.40.

Toward the integration of optical sensors in smartphone screens using femtosecond laser writing.

PubMed

Lapointe, Jerome; Parent, Francois; de Lima Filho, Elton Soares; Loranger, Sébastien; Kashyap, Raman

2015-12-01

We demonstrate a new type of sensor incorporated directly into Corning Gorilla glass, an ultraresistant glass widely used in the screen of popular devices such as smartphones, tablets, and smart watches. Although physical space is limited in portable devices, the screens have been so far neglected in regard to functionalization. Our proof-of-concept shows a new niche for photonics device development, in which the screen becomes an active component integrated into the device. The sensor itself is a near-surface waveguide, sensitive to refractive index changes, enabling the analysis of liquids directly on the screen of a smartphone, without the need for any add-ons, thus opening this part of the device to advanced functionalization. The primary function of the screen is unaffected, since the sensor and waveguide are effectively invisible to the naked eye. We fabricated a waveguide just below the glass surface, directly written without any surface preparation, in which the change in refractive index on the surface-air interface changes the light guidance, thus the transmission of light. This work reports on sensor fabrication, using a femtosecond pulsed laser, and the light-interaction model of the beam propagating at the surface is discussed and compared with experimental measurement for refractive indexes in the range 1.3-1.7. A new and improved model, including input and output reflections due to the effective mode index change, is also proposed and yields a better match with our experimental measurements and also with previous measurements reported in the literature.

Fiber-integrated refractive index sensor based on a diced Fabry-Perot micro-resonator.

PubMed

Suntsov, Sergiy; Rüter, Christian E; Schipkowski, Tom; Kip, Detlef

2017-11-20

We report on a fiber-integrated refractive index sensor based on a Fabry-Perot micro-resonator fabricated using simple diamond blade dicing of a single-mode step-index fiber. The performance of the device has been tested for the refractive index measurements of sucrose solutions as well as in air. The device shows a sensitivity of 1160 nm/RIU (refractive index unit) at a wavelength of 1.55 μm and a temperature cross-sensitivity of less than 10 -7   RIU/°C. Based on evaluation of the broadband reflection spectra, refractive index steps of 10 -5 of the solutions were accurately measured. The conducted coating of the resonator sidewalls with layers of a high-index material with real-time reflection spectrum monitoring could help to significantly improve the sensor performance.

Formation of bulk refractive index structures

DOEpatents

Potter, Jr., Barrett George; Potter, Kelly Simmons; Wheeler, David R.; Jamison, Gregory M.

2003-07-15

A method of making a stacked three-dimensional refractive index structure in photosensitive materials using photo-patterning where first determined is the wavelength at which a photosensitive material film exhibits a change in refractive index upon exposure to optical radiation, a portion of the surfaces of the photosensitive material film is optically irradiated, the film is marked to produce a registry mark. Multiple films are produced and aligned using the registry marks to form a stacked three-dimensional refractive index structure.

Improved retroreflection method for measuring the refractive index of liquids.

PubMed

Shao, Duo; Tian, Linghao; Chen, Jingfei; Chen, Xianfeng

2010-06-01

We propose a new method for measuring the refractive index of liquids with high precision; the method is based on use of the optical fiber end face. As an example, we investigated the refractive index of sugar solution under varying conditions tens of times. The results show that this method has the advantage of higher stability and repeatability. The concentration and the temperature-dependent refractive index of the sugar solution is also experimentally studied.

Nonscanning Moiré deflectometry for measurement of nonlinear refractive index and absorption coefficient of liquids.

PubMed

Farahani, Shahrzad Shahrabi; Madanipour, Khosro; Koohian, Ata

2017-05-01

In this work, a nonscanning measurement technique is presented for determining the nonlinear refractive index and absorption coefficient of liquid media based on Moiré deflectometry. In the proposed method two lasers are used: a low power, wide beam as probe and a high power with specific wavelength as a pump. Interaction of the pump laser beam with the nonlinear sample changes the refractive index, which leads to change in convergence/divergence of the collimated incident probe laser beam. The induced deflection is monitored by Moiré deflectometry. If the pump laser has a Gaussian intensity profile, the refractive index profile of the sample is Gaussian, too. Measuring the deflection angle of the probe beam by Moiré fringes deflection, and by using the inverse Abel transform integral, the refractive index profile and nonlinear refractive index can be determined. This method is fast, easy, and insensitive to environmental noise and allows real-time measurement. Also, the refractive index profile of the interacted medium with pump laser can be achieved by this technique. As a liquid sample, a DCJ dye in water solution was studied. The value of nonlinear refractive index, n₂, and absorption coefficient, α, were obtained -2.54×10^-4  cm² w^-1 and 1.368  cm^-1, respectively.

Estimation of the refractive index of rigid contact lenses on the basis of back vertex power measurements.

PubMed

Pearson, Richard

2011-03-01

To assess the possibility of estimating the refractive index of rigid contact lenses on the basis of measurements of their back vertex power (BVP) in air and when immersed in liquid. First, a spreadsheet model was used to quantify the magnitude of errors arising from simulated inaccuracies in the variables required to calculate refractive index. Then, refractive index was calculated from in-air and in-liquid measurements of BVP of 21 lenses that had been made in three negative BVPs from materials with seven different nominal refractive index values. The power measurements were made by two operators on two occasions. Intraobserver reliability showed a mean difference of 0.0033±0.0061 (t = 0.544, P = 0.59), interobserver reliability showed a mean difference of 0.0043±0.0061 (t = 0.707, P = 0.48), and the mean difference between the nominal and calculated refractive index values was -0.0010±0.0111 (t = -0.093, P = 0.93). The spreadsheet prediction that low-powered lenses might be subject to greater errors in the calculated values of refractive index was substantiated by the experimental results. This method shows good intra and interobserver reliabilities and can be used easily in a clinical setting to provide an estimate of the refractive index of rigid contact lenses having a BVP of 3 D or more.

Study on the effect of carbon nanotube coating on the refractive index sensing sensitivity of fiber modal interferometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Ya-nan; Xie, Wen-ge; Wang, Jianzhang; Wang, Pengzhao

2018-01-01

Refractive index sensing of liquid is important in the domain of chemistry and biology. Fiber optical sensors provide an excellent way to measure the refractive index due to their feasible integration to other fiber optics components, high sensitivity, small size, and distributed sensing. However, conventional optical sensors have different shortages. To find a practical way to measure the refractive index of liquid, this paper intended to combine Carbon Nanotube (CNT) with non-core fiber (NCF) to prepare a kind of modal interferometer sensor and to explore the effect of CNT coating on refractive index sensing properties of the modal interferometer. Firstly, a structure of single mode non-core single mode (SNS) fiber with a CNT film coating was proposed and simulated. The simulation results showed that the CNT coating could improve the refractive index sensitivity of the interferometer sensor. Then in the experiment part, the CNT solution was fabricated and deposited onto the NCF, and a refractive index sensing system was built to examine the property of the CNT-coated SNS interferometer sensor. During the experiment, the influence factors of sensitivity were summarized by testing the sensing performance under different conditions, and it was demonstrated that the CNT coating could improve the contrast of the interference spectrum, and also had the possibility to increase the refractive index sensitivity of the interferometer sensor.

Complex refractive index of Martian dust - Wavelength dependence and composition

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pang, K.; Ajello, J. M.

1977-01-01

The size distribution and complex refractive index of Martian dust-cloud particles observed in 1971 with the Mariner 9 UV spectrometer are determined by matching the observed single-scattering albedo and phase function with Mie-scattering calculations for size distributions of spheres. Values of phase function times single-scattering albedo are presented for 12 wavelength intervals in the range from 190 to 350 nm, and best-fit values are obtained for the absorption index. It is found that the absorption index of the dust particles increases with decreasing wavelength from 350 to about 210 nm and then drops off shortward of 210 nm, with a structural shoulder occurring in the absorption spectrum between 240 and 250 nm. A search for a candidate material that can explain the strong UV absorption yields TiO2, whose anatase polymorph has an absorption spectrum matching that of the Martian dust. The TiO2 content of the dust particles is estimated to be a few percent or less.

Modified Kramers-Kronig relations and sum rules for meromorphic total refractive index

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Peiponen, Kai-Erik; Saarinen, Jarkko J.; Vartiainen, Erik M.

2003-08-01

Modified Kramers-Kronig relations and corresponding sum rules are shown to hold for the total refractive index that can be presented as a sum of complex linear and nonlinear refractive indices, respectively. It is suggested that a self-action process, involving the degenerate third-order nonlinear susceptibility, can yield a negative total refractive index at some spectral range.

Highly sensitive detection of naphthalene in solvent vapor using a functionalized PBG refractive index sensor.

PubMed

Girschikofsky, Maiko; Rosenberger, Manuel; Belle, Stefan; Brutschy, Malte; Waldvogel, Siegfried R; Hellmann, Ralf

2012-01-01

We report an optical refractive index sensor system based on a planar Bragg grating which is functionalized by substituted γ-cyclodextrin to determine low concentrations of naphthalene in solvent vapor. The sensor system exhibits a quasi-instantaneous shift of the Bragg wavelength and is therefore capable for online detection. The overall shift of the Bragg wavelength reveals a linear relationship to the analyte concentration with a gradient of 12.5 ± 1.5 pm/ppm. Due to the spectral resolution and repeatability of the interrogation system, this corresponds to acquisition steps of 80 ppb. Taking into account the experimentally detected signal noise a minimum detection limit of 0.48 ± 0.05 ppm is deduced.

Comparable change in stromal refractive index of cat and human corneas following blue-IRIS.

PubMed

Wozniak, Kaitlin T; Gearhart, Sara M; Savage, Daniel E; Ellis, Jonathan D; Knox, Wayne H; Huxlin, Krystel R

2017-05-01

Blue intratissue refractive index shaping (blue-IRIS) is a method with potential to correct ocular refraction noninvasively in humans. To date, blue-IRIS has only ever been applied to cat corneas and hydrogels. To test the comparability of refractive index change achievable in cat and human tissues, we used blue-IRIS to write identical phase gratings in ex vivo feline and human corneas. Femtosecond pulses (400 nm) were focused ? 300 ?? ? m below the epithelial surface of excised cat and human corneas and scanned to write phase gratings with lines ? 1 ?? ? m wide, spaced 5 ?? ? m apart, using a scan speed of 5 ?? mm / s . Additional cat corneas were used to test writing at 3 and 7 ?? mm / s in order to document speed dependence of the refractive index change magnitude. The first-order diffraction efficiency was immediately measured and used to calculate the refractive index change attained. Our data show that blue-IRIS induces comparable refractive index changes in feline and human corneas, an essential requirement for further developing its use as a clinical vision correction technique.

Comparable change in stromal refractive index of cat and human corneas following blue-IRIS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wozniak, Kaitlin T.; Gearhart, Sara M.; Savage, Daniel E.; Ellis, Jonathan D.; Knox, Wayne H.; Huxlin, Krystel R.

2017-05-01

Blue intratissue refractive index shaping (blue-IRIS) is a method with potential to correct ocular refraction noninvasively in humans. To date, blue-IRIS has only ever been applied to cat corneas and hydrogels. To test the comparability of refractive index change achievable in cat and human tissues, we used blue-IRIS to write identical phase gratings in ex vivo feline and human corneas. Femtosecond pulses (400 nm) were focused ˜300 μm below the epithelial surface of excised cat and human corneas and scanned to write phase gratings with lines ˜1 μm wide, spaced 5 μm apart, using a scan speed of 5 mm/s. Additional cat corneas were used to test writing at 3 and 7 mm/s in order to document speed dependence of the refractive index change magnitude. The first-order diffraction efficiency was immediately measured and used to calculate the refractive index change attained. Our data show that blue-IRIS induces comparable refractive index changes in feline and human corneas, an essential requirement for further developing its use as a clinical vision correction technique.

Temperature independent refractive index measurement using a fiber Bragg grating on abrupt tapered tip

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gomes, André D.; Silveira, Beatriz; Warren-Smith, Stephen C.; Becker, Martin; Rothhardt, Manfred; Frazão, Orlando

2018-05-01

A fiber Bragg grating was inscribed in an abrupt fiber taper using a femtosecond laser and phase-mask interferometer. The abrupt taper transition allows to excite a broad range of guided modes with different effective refractive indices that are reflected at different wavelengths according to Bragg's law. The multimode-Bragg reflection expands over 30 nm in the telecom-C-band. This corresponds to a mode-field overlap of up to 30% outside of the fiber, making the device suitable for evanescent field sensing. Refractive index and temperature measurements are performed for different reflection peaks. Temperature independent refractive index measurements are achieved by considering the difference between the wavelength shifts of two measured reflection peaks. A minimum refractive index sensitivity of 16 ± 1 nm/RIU was obtained in a low refractive index regime (1.3475-1.3720) with low influence of temperature (-0.32 ± 0.06 pm/°C). The cross sensitivity for this structure is 2.0 × 10-5 RIU/°C. The potential for simultaneous measurement of refractive index and temperature is also studied.

Finite element approximation of the radiative transport equation in a medium with piece-wise constant refractive index

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lehtikangas, O., E-mail: Ossi.Lehtikangas@uef.fi; Tarvainen, T.; Department of Computer Science, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT

2015-02-01

The radiative transport equation can be used as a light transport model in a medium with scattering particles, such as biological tissues. In the radiative transport equation, the refractive index is assumed to be constant within the medium. However, in biomedical media, changes in the refractive index can occur between different tissue types. In this work, light propagation in a medium with piece-wise constant refractive index is considered. Light propagation in each sub-domain with a constant refractive index is modeled using the radiative transport equation and the equations are coupled using boundary conditions describing Fresnel reflection and refraction phenomena onmore » the interfaces between the sub-domains. The resulting coupled system of radiative transport equations is numerically solved using a finite element method. The approach is tested with simulations. The results show that this coupled system describes light propagation accurately through comparison with the Monte Carlo method. It is also shown that neglecting the internal changes of the refractive index can lead to erroneous boundary measurements of scattered light.« less

Effect of TiCl4 treatment on the refractive index of nanoporous TiO2 films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, Jeeyoung; Lee, Myeongkyu

2015-12-01

We investigate the effect of TiCl4 treatment on the refractive index of a nanoporous TiO2 film. A nanoparticulate TiO2 film prepared on a glass substrate was immersed in a TiCl4 aqueous solution. The subsequent reaction of TiCl4 with H2O produces TiO2 and thus modifies the density and the refractive index of the film. With increasing TiCl4 concentration, the refractive index initially increased and then declined after being maximized (n = 2.02 at 633 nm) at 0.08 M concentration. A refractive index change as large as 0.45 could be obtained with the TiCl4 treatment, making it possible to achieve diffraction efficiency exceeding 80% in a diffraction grating-embedded TiO2 film. For high TiCl4 concentrations of 0.32 M and 0.64 M, the refractive index remained nearly unchanged. This was attributed to the limited permeability of high-viscosity TiCl4 solutions into the nanoporous films. The measured pore size distributions were in good agreement with the results of a diffraction analysis and refractive index measurement.

Iodine insertion and dispersion of refractive index in organic single crystal semiconductor.

PubMed

Kwon, Seonho; Bae, Junwan; Lee, I J

2018-02-20

Insertion of halogens such as bromine or iodine affects the electronic polarizability of ions and the local field inside the medium, and thus modifies the refractive index. Acquiring precise knowledge of the dispersion of refractive index and ultimately tailoring conventional semiconductors for wide-range refractive index control have been a vital issue to resolve before realizing advanced organic optoelectronic devices. In this report, dispersions of the refractive index of a single crystal tetramethyltetraselenafulvalene [C 10 H 12 Se 4 ] (TMTSF) are thoroughly studied from broadband interference modulations of photoluminescence (PL) spectra at various temperatures and doping levels. A large enhancement of the refractive index, more than 20% of the intrinsic value, is achieved with inclusion of a small composition of iodide ions, while the structural and optical properties remain mostly intact. Nearly temperature independent dispersion of the refractive index suggests that, unlike most polymers in which the thermal expansion coefficient dominates over the change of polarizability with temperature, the latter enhances significantly and may become more or less comparable to the thermal expansion coefficient given by 1.71 × 10 -4 /K, when single crystal TMTSF is doped by iodine.

Broadband Terahertz Refraction Index Dispersion and Loss of Polymeric Dielectric Substrate and Packaging Materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Motaharifar, E.; Pierce, R. G.; Islam, R.; Henderson, R.; Hsu, J. W. P.; Lee, Mark

2018-01-01

In the effort to push the high-frequency performance of electronic circuits and signal interconnects from millimeter waves to beyond 1 THz, a quantitative knowledge of complex refraction index values and dispersion in potential dielectric substrate, encapsulation, waveguide, and packaging materials becomes critical. Here we present very broadband measurements of the real and imaginary index spectra of four polymeric dielectric materials considered for use in high-frequency electronics: benzocyclobutene (BCB), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN), the photoresist SU-8, and polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS). Reflectance and transmittance spectra from 3 to 75 THz were made using a Fourier transform spectrometer on freestanding material samples. These data were quantitatively analyzed, taking into account multiple partial reflections from front and back surfaces and molecular bond resonances, where applicable, to generate real and imaginary parts of the refraction index as a function of frequency. All materials showed signatures of infrared active organic molecular bond resonances between 10 and 50 THz. Low-loss transmission windows as well as anti-window bands of high dispersion and loss can be readily identified and incorporated into high-frequency design models.

Measurement and design of refractive corrections using ultrafast laser-induced intra-tissue refractive index shaping in live cats

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Brooks, Daniel R.; Wozniak, Kaitlin T.; Knox, Wayne; Ellis, Jonathan D.; Huxlin, Krystel R.

2018-02-01

Intra-Tissue Refractive Index Shaping (IRIS) uses a 405 nm femtosecond laser focused into the stromal region of the cornea to induce a local refractive index change through multiphoton absorption. This refractive index change can be tailored through scanning of the focal region and variations in laser power to create refractive structures, such as gradient index lenses for visual refractive correction. Previously, IRIS was used to create 2.5 mm wide, square, -1 D cylindrical refractive structures in living cats. In the present work, we first wrote 400 μm wide bars of refractive index change at varying powers in enucleated cat globes using a custom flexure-based scanning system. The cornea and surrounding sclera were then removed and mounted into a wet cell. The induced optical phase change was measured with a Mach- Zehnder Interferometer (MZI), and appeared as fringe displacement, whose magnitude was proportional to the refractive index change. The interferograms produced by the MZI were analyzed with a Fourier Transform based algorithm in order to extract the phase change. This provided a phase change versus laser power calibration, which was then used to design the scanning and laser power distribution required to create -1.5 D cylindrical Fresnel lenses in cat cornea covering an area 6 mm in diameter. This prescription was inscribed into the corneas of one eye each of two living cats, under surgical anesthesia. It was then verified in vivo by contrasting wavefront aberration measurements collected pre- IRIS with those obtained over six months post-IRIS using a Shack-Hartmann wavefront sensor.

Optic-null space medium for cover-up cloaking without any negative refraction index materials

PubMed Central

Sun, Fei; He, Sailing

2016-01-01

With the help of optic-null medium, we propose a new way to achieve invisibility by covering up the scattering without using any negative refraction index materials. Compared with previous methods to achieve invisibility, the function of our cloak is to cover up the scattering of the objects to be concealed by a background object of strong scattering. The concealed object can receive information from the outside world without being detected. Numerical simulations verify the performance of our cloak. The proposed method will be a great addition to existing invisibility technology. PMID:27383833

Interferometric measurement of the temperature dependence of an index of refraction: application to fused silica.

PubMed

Dupouy, Paul-Edouard; Büchner, Matthias; Paquier, Philippe; Trénec, Gérard; Vigué, Jacques

2010-02-01

The light reflected by an uncoated Fabry-Perot etalon presents dark rings which give a very sensitive measurement of the variations of the return optical path in the etalon. By measuring the diameters of these rings as a function of the etalon temperature T, we get a sensitive measurement of the derivative dn/dT of the index of refraction n. We have made this experiment with a fused silica etalon and we have achieved a 2% relative uncertainty on dn/dT, comparable to the uncertainty of the best experiments.

Optic-null space medium for cover-up cloaking without any negative refraction index materials.

PubMed

Sun, Fei; He, Sailing

2016-07-07

With the help of optic-null medium, we propose a new way to achieve invisibility by covering up the scattering without using any negative refraction index materials. Compared with previous methods to achieve invisibility, the function of our cloak is to cover up the scattering of the objects to be concealed by a background object of strong scattering. The concealed object can receive information from the outside world without being detected. Numerical simulations verify the performance of our cloak. The proposed method will be a great addition to existing invisibility technology.

Quantum vacuum emission from a moving refractive index front

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jacquet, M.; König, F.

2015-09-01

We investigate the spontaneous emission of light from the quantum vacuum in a dispersive dielectric at a moving Refractive Index Front (RIF). Our aim is to develop further an existing analytical model to fully characterize the emission and calculate its spectrum in different configurations. We show in which conditions the RIF acts as a point of non-return, an artificial black hole event horizon, for modes of the field. We calculate the spectrum of this emission and the number of photons emitted from the vacuum in the unique escaping mode as a function of the RIF height and velocity in the medium.

Refractive index sensor based on optical fiber end face using pulse reference-based compensation technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bian, Qiang; Song, Zhangqi; Zhang, Xueliang; Yu, Yang; Chen, Yuzhong

2018-03-01

We proposed a refractive index sensor based on optical fiber end face using pulse reference-based compensation technique. With good compensation effect of this compensation technique, the power fluctuation of light source, the change of optic components transmission loss and coupler splitting ratio can be compensated, which largely reduces the background noise. The refractive index resolutions can achieve 3.8 × 10-6 RIU and1.6 × 10-6 RIU in different refractive index regions.

Optical Properties of Si, Ge, GaAs, GaSb, InAs, and InP at Elevated Temperatures

DTIC Science & Technology

2010-03-01

transmitted, and an absorbed (or scattered) component. The reflectance can be defined in terms of the index of refraction of the media on either side...of the interface. If the index of refraction of the material is n and the material is surrounded by air (nair ≈ 1), then the reflectance for near...the absorption coefficient and t is the sample thickness. 9 Since R depends on the refractive index and the refractive index depends on the

Response to Comment on "Is the nuclear refractive index lower than cytoplasm? Validation of phase measurements and implications for light scattering technologies": A Comment on "How a phase image of a cell with nucleus refractive index smaller than that of the cytoplasm should look like?", e201800033.

PubMed

Steelman, Zachary A; Eldridge, Will J; Wax, Adam

2018-06-01

Recently, Maxim A. Yurkin commented on our paper "Is the nuclear refractive index lower than cytoplasm? Validation of phase measurements and implications for light scattering technologies" as well as on a complementary study "Cell nuclei have lower refractive index and mass density than cytoplasm" from Schürmann et al. In his comment, Yurkin concluded that quantitative phase images of cells with nuclei that are less optically dense than the cytoplasm must exhibit a characteristic concavity, the absence of which is evidence against our conclusion of a less-dense nucleus. In this response, we suggest that Yurkin's conclusion is reached through an oversimplification of the spatial refractive index distribution within cells, which does not account for high index inclusions such as the nucleolus. We further cite recent studies in 3-dimensional refractive index imaging, in which the preponderance of studies supports our conclusion. Finally, we comment on the current state of knowledge regarding subcellular refractive index distributions in living cells. © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Multi-parameter optimization of monolithic high-index contrast grating reflectors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Marciniak, Magdalena; Gebski, Marcin; Dems, Maciej; Wasiak, Michał; Czyszanowski, Tomasz

2016-03-01

Conventional High-index Contrast Gratings (HCG) consist of periodically distributed high refractive index stripes surrounded by low index media. Practically, such low/high index stack can be fabricated in several ways however low refractive index layers are electrical insulators of poor thermal conductivities. Monolithic High-index Contrast Gratings (MHCGs) overcome those limitations since they can be implemented in any material with a real refractive index larger than 1.75 without the need of the combination of low and high refractive index materials. The freedom of use of various materials allows to provide more efficient current injection and better heat flow through the mirror, in contrary to the conventional HCGs. MHCGs can simplify the construction of VCSELs, reducing their epitaxial design to monolithic wafer with carrier confinement and active region inside and etched stripes on both surfaces in post processing. We present numerical analysis of MHCGs using a three-dimensional, fully vectorial optical model. We investigate possible designs of MHCGs using multidimensional optimization of grating parameters for different refractive indices.

Nonlinear refraction at the absorption edge in InAs.

PubMed

Poole, C D; Garmire, E

1984-08-01

The results of measurements of nonlinear refraction at the absorption edge in InAs between 68 and 90 K taken with an HF laser are compared with those of a band-gap resonant model in which the contribution of the light-hole band is included and found to account for more than 40% of the observed nonlinear refraction. A generalized expression for the nonlinear index is derived by using the complete Fermi-Dirac distribution function. Good agreement between theory and experiment is obtained, with no free parameters.

Analysis of the hologram recording on the novel chloride photo-thermo-refractive glass

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ivanov, S. A.; Nikonorov, N. V.; Dubrovin, V. D.; Krykova, V. A.

2017-05-01

In this research, we present new holographic material based on fluoride photo-thermo-refractive glass(PTR) - chloride PTR glass. One of the benefit of this type of PTR glass is positive refractive index change. During this work, for the first-time volume Bragg gratings were recorded in this kind of material. The first experiments revealed that such gratings are mixed i.e. possess both absorption and phase components. Complex analysis shows that both refractive index and absorption coefficient are modulated inside the grating structure. We found out that at first there is no strict dependence of the refractive index change from dosage, but as we continue the process of thermal treatment - dependence is appear. Exposure influence on the refractive index change for this glass differs from fluoride one and shows some sort of saturation after the exposure of 4-6 J/cm2 . We distinguished refractive index change and absorption coefficient change and observed both behavior with increasing thermal treatment time. We found out that the increase of thermal treatment time results in the significant refractive index change. At the same time the absorption does `not practically change. It was found that maximum modulation of refractive index is comparable with fluoride PTR glass and achieves value of 1600 ppm. The modulation of absorption is equal to induced absorption caused by silver nanoparticles and depends from reading wavelength. Our study shows that almost all absorption is modulated inside the grating.

Refractive index inversion based on Mueller matrix method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fan, Huaxi; Wu, Wenyuan; Huang, Yanhua; Li, Zhaozhao

2016-03-01

Based on Stokes vector and Jones vector, the correlation between Mueller matrix elements and refractive index was studied with the result simplified, and through Mueller matrix way, the expression of refractive index inversion was deduced. The Mueller matrix elements, under different incident angle, are simulated through the expression of specular reflection so as to analyze the influence of the angle of incidence and refractive index on it, which is verified through the measure of the Mueller matrix elements of polished metal surface. Research shows that, under the condition of specular reflection, the result of Mueller matrix inversion is consistent with the experiment and can be used as an index of refraction of inversion method, and it provides a new way for target detection and recognition technology.

Study of optical nonlinearities in Se-Te-Bi thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sharma, Ambika; Yadav, Preeti; Kumari, Anshu

2014-04-01

The present work reports the nonlinear refractive index of Se85-xTe15Bix thin films calculated by Ticha and Tichy relation. The nonlinear refractive index of Chalcogenide amorphous semiconductor is well correlated with the linear refractive index and WDD parameters which in turn depend on the density and molar volume of the system. The density of the system is calculated theoretical as well as experimentally by using Archimedes principle. The linear refractive index and WDD parameters are calculated using single transmission spectra in the spectral range of 400-1500 nm. It is observed that linear as well as nonlinear refractive index increases with Bi content. The results are analyzed on the basis of increasing polarizability due to larger radii of Bi.

Numerical simulations of negative-index refraction in wedge-shaped metamaterials.

PubMed

Dong, Z G; Zhu, S N; Liu, H; Zhu, J; Cao, W

2005-07-01

A wedge-shaped structure made of split-ring resonators (SRR) and wires is numerically simulated to evaluate its refraction behavior. Four frequency bands, namely, the stop band, left-handed band, ultralow-index band, and positive-index band, are distinguished according to the refracted field distributions. Negative phase velocity inside the wedge is demonstrated in the left-handed band and the Snell's Law is conformed in terms of its refraction behaviors in different frequency bands. Our results confirmed that negative index of refraction indeed exists in such a composite metamaterial and also provided a convincing support to the results of previous Snell's Law experiments.

Determination of average refractive index of spin coated DCG films for HOE fabrication

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kim, T. J.; Campbell, Eugene W.; Kostuk, Raymond K.

1993-01-01

The refractive index of holographic emulsions is an important parameter needed for designing holographic optical elements (HOE's). Theoretical calculations of the accuracy required for the refractive index and thickness of emulsions needed to meet predetermined Bragg angle conditions are presented. A modified interferometric method is used to find average refractive index of the unexposed and the developed dichromated gelatin holographic films. Slanted transmission HOE's are designed considering the index and thickness variations, and used to verify the index measurement results. The Brewster angle method is used to measure surface index of the unexposed and the developed films. The differences between average index and surface index are discussed. Theoretical calculation of the effects of index variation on diffraction efficiency, and experimental results for index modulation variation caused by process changes are also presented.

Measurement of Refractive Index Using a Michelson Interferometer.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Fendley, J. J.

1982-01-01

Describes a novel and simple method of measuring the refractive index of transparent plates using a Michelson interferometer. Since it is necessary to use a computer program when determining the refractive index, undergraduates could be given the opportunity of writing their own programs. (Author/JN)

String and Sticky Tape Experiments: Refractive Index of Liquids.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Edge, R. D., Ed.

1979-01-01

Describes a simple method of measuring the refractive index of a liquid using a paper cup, a liquid, a pencil, and a ruler. Uses the ratio between the actual depth and the apparent depth of the cup to calculate the refractive index. (GA)

Simulation of imperfections in plastic lenses - transferring local refractive index changes into surface shape modifications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arasa, Josep; Pizarro, Carles; Blanco, Patricia

2016-06-01

Injection molded plastic lenses have continuously improved their performance regarding optical quality and nowadays are as usual as glass lenses in image forming devices. However, during the manufacturing process unavoidable fluctuations in material density occur, resulting in local changes in the distribution of refractive index, which degrade the imaging properties of the polymer lens. Such material density fluctuations correlate to phase delays, which opens a path for their mapping. However, it is difficult to transfer the measured variations in refractive index into conventional optical simulation tool. Thus, we propose a method to convert the local variations in refractive index into local changes of one surface of the lens, which can then be described as a free-form surface, easy to introduce in conventional simulation tools. The proposed method was tested on a commercial gradient index (GRIN) lens for a set of six different object positions, using the MTF sagittal and tangential cuts to compare the differences between the real lens and a lens with homogenous refractive index, and the last surface converted into a free-form shape containing the internal refractive index changes. The same procedure was used to reproduce the local refractive index changes of an injected plastic lens with local index changes measured using an in-house built polariscopic arrangement, showing the capability of the method to provide successful results.

Long range surface plasmon resonance (LRSPR) based highly sensitive refractive index sensor using Kretschmann prism coupling arrangement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Paliwal, Ayushi; Sharma, Anjali; Tomar, Monika; Gupta, Vinay

2016-04-01

Long range surface plasmon resonance (LRSPR) when exploited for sensing purpose exhibit less losses in comparison to the sensors based on conventional SPR technique leading to the development of highly sensitive refractive index sensor. In order to excite long range surface plasmon (LRSP) mode, a high refractive index prism is used as coupler and a thin metal layer is sandwiched between a dielectric having similar refractive index with that of another semi-infinite dielectric. LRSP mode has been excited in symmetric configuration where metal (Au) layer is sandwiched between the two similar refractive index dielectrics (LiF thin film and a fixed concentration of sugar solution) for realization of a refractive index sensor. When the concentration of sugar solution is slightly increased from 30% to 40%, the LRSPR angle increases from 64.6° to 67.9° and the sensor is found to be highly sensitive with sensitivity of 0.0911 °/(mg/dl).

Effect of temperature rise and hydrostatic pressure on microbending loss and refractive index change in double-coated optical fiber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seraji, Faramarz E.; Toutian, Golnoosh

This paper presents an analysis of the effect of temperature rise and hydrostatic pressure on microbending loss, refractive index change, and stress components of a double-coated optical fiber by considering coating material parameters such as Young's modulus and the Poisson ratio. It is shown that, when temperature rises, the microbending loss and refractive index changes would decrease with increase of thickness of primary coating layer and will increase after passing through a minima. Increase of thickness of secondary coating layer causes the microbending loss and refractive index changes to decrease. We have shown that the temperature rise affecting the fiber makes the microbending loss and refractive index decrease, linearly. At a particular temperature, the microbending loss takes negative values, due to tensile pressure applied on the fiber. The increase of Young's modulus and the Poisson ratio of primary coating would lower the microbending loss and refractive index change whereas in the secondary coating layer, the condition reverses.

Frequency comb calibrated frequency-sweeping interferometry for absolute group refractive index measurement of air.

PubMed

Yang, Lijun; Wu, Xuejian; Wei, Haoyun; Li, Yan

2017-04-10

The absolute group refractive index of air at 194061.02 GHz is measured in real time using frequency-sweeping interferometry calibrated by an optical frequency comb. The group refractive index of air is calculated from the calibration peaks of the laser frequency variation and the interference signal of the two beams passing through the inner and outer regions of a vacuum cell when the frequency of a tunable external cavity diode laser is scanned. We continuously measure the refractive index of air for 2 h, which shows that the difference between measured results and Ciddor's equation is less than 9.6×10^-8, and the standard deviation of that difference is 5.9×10^-8. The relative uncertainty of the measured refractive index of air is estimated to be 8.6×10^-8. The data update rate is 0.2 Hz, making it applicable under conditions in which air refractive index fluctuates fast.

Using a laser source to measure the refractive index of glass beads and Debye theory analysis.

PubMed

Li, Shui-Yan; Qin, Shuang; Li, Da-Hai; Wang, Qiong-Hua

2015-11-20

Using a monochromatic laser beam to illuminate a homogeneous glass bead, some rainbows will appear around it. This paper concentrates on the study of the scattering intensity distribution and the method of measuring the refractive index for glass beads based on the Debye theory. It is found that the first rainbow due to the scattering superposition of backward light of the low-refractive-index glass beads can be explained approximately with the diffraction, the external reflection plus the one internal reflection, while the second rainbow of high-refractive-index glass beads is due to the contribution from the diffraction, the external reflection, the direct transmission, and the two internal reflections. The scattering intensity distribution is affected by the refractive index, the radius of the glass bead, and the incident beam width. The effects of the refractive index and the glass bead size on the first and second minimum deviation angle position are analyzed in this paper. The results of the measurements agree very well with the specifications.

Figure of Merit Enhancement of a Surface Plasmon Resonance Sensor Using a Low-Refractive-Index Porous Silica Film

PubMed Central

Meng, Qing-Qing; Zhao, Xin; Lin, Cheng-You; Chen, Shu-Jing; Ding, Ying-Chun; Chen, Zhao-Yang

2017-01-01

In this paper; the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensor with a porous silica film was studied. The effect of the thickness and porosity of the porous silica film on the performance of the sensor was analyzed. The results indicated that the figure of merit (FOM) of an SPR sensor can be enhanced by using a porous silica film with a low-refractive-index. Particularly; the FOM of an SPR sensor with 40 nm thick 90% porosity porous silica film; whose refractive index is 1.04 was improved by 311% when compared with that of a traditional SPR sensor. Furthermore; it was found that the decrease in the refractive index or the increase in the thickness of the low-refractive-index porous silica film can enlarge the FOM enhancement. It is believed that the proposed SPR sensor with a low-refractive-index porous silica film will be helpful for high-performance SPR sensors development. PMID:28796155

Figure of Merit Enhancement of a Surface Plasmon Resonance Sensor Using a Low-Refractive-Index Porous Silica Film.

PubMed

Meng, Qing-Qing; Zhao, Xin; Lin, Cheng-You; Chen, Shu-Jing; Ding, Ying-Chun; Chen, Zhao-Yang

2017-08-10

In this paper; the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensor with a porous silica film was studied. The effect of the thickness and porosity of the porous silica film on the performance of the sensor was analyzed. The results indicated that the figure of merit (FOM) of an SPR sensor can be enhanced by using a porous silica film with a low-refractive-index. Particularly; the FOM of an SPR sensor with 40 nm thick 90% porosity porous silica film; whose refractive index is 1.04 was improved by 311% when compared with that of a traditional SPR sensor. Furthermore; it was found that the decrease in the refractive index or the increase in the thickness of the low-refractive-index porous silica film can enlarge the FOM enhancement. It is believed that the proposed SPR sensor with a low-refractive-index porous silica film will be helpful for high-performance SPR sensors development.

Database and new models based on a group contribution method to predict the refractive index of ionic liquids.

PubMed

Wang, Xinxin; Lu, Xingmei; Zhou, Qing; Zhao, Yongsheng; Li, Xiaoqian; Zhang, Suojiang

2017-08-02

Refractive index is one of the important physical properties, which is widely used in separation and purification. In this study, the refractive index data of ILs were collected to establish a comprehensive database, which included about 2138 pieces of data from 1996 to 2014. The Group Contribution-Artificial Neural Network (GC-ANN) model and Group Contribution (GC) method were employed to predict the refractive index of ILs at different temperatures from 283.15 K to 368.15 K. Average absolute relative deviations (AARD) of the GC-ANN model and the GC method were 0.179% and 0.628%, respectively. The results showed that a GC-ANN model provided an effective way to estimate the refractive index of ILs, whereas the GC method was simple and extensive. In summary, both of the models were accurate and efficient approaches for estimating refractive indices of ILs.

Determination of effective complex refractive index of a turbid liquid with surface plasmon resonance phase detection.

PubMed

Yingying, Zhang; Jiancheng, Lai; Cheng, Yin; Zhenhua, Li

2009-03-01

The dependence of the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) phase difference curve on the complex refractive index of a sample in Kretschmann configuration is discussed comprehensively, based on which a new method is proposed to measure the complex refractive index of turbid liquid. A corresponding experiment setup was constructed to measure the SPR phase difference curve, and the complex refractive index of turbid liquid was determined. By using the setup, the complex refractive indices of Intralipid solutions with concentrations of 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% are obtained to be 1.3377+0.0005 i, 1.3427+0.0028 i, 1.3476+0.0034 i, and 1.3496+0.0038 i, respectively. Furthermore, the error analysis indicates that the root-mean-square errors of both the real and the imaginary parts of the measured complex refractive index are less than 5x10(-5).

Application of stochastic particle swarm optimization algorithm to determine the graded refractive index distribution in participating media

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wei, Lin-Yang; Qi, Hong; Ren, Ya-Tao; Ruan, Li-Ming

2016-11-01

Inverse estimation of the refractive index distribution in one-dimensional participating media with graded refractive index (GRI) is investigated. The forward radiative transfer problem is solved by the Chebyshev collocation spectral method. The stochastic particle swarm optimization (SPSO) algorithm is employed to retrieve three kinds of GRI distribution, i.e. the linear, sinusoidal and quadratic GRI distribution. The retrieval accuracy of GRI distribution with different wall emissivity, optical thickness, absorption coefficients and scattering coefficients are discussed thoroughly. To improve the retrieval accuracy of quadratic GRI distribution, a double-layer model is proposed to supply more measurement information. The influence of measurement errors upon the precision of estimated results is also investigated. Considering the GRI distribution is unknown beforehand in practice, a quadratic function is employed to retrieve the linear GRI by SPSO algorithm. All the results show that the SPSO algorithm is applicable to retrieve different GRI distributions in participating media accurately even with noisy data.

Fabrication of Refractive Index Tunable Coating with Moisture-Resistant Function for High-Power Laser Systems Based on Homogeneous Embedding of Surface-Modified Nanoparticles.

PubMed

Yang, Wei; Lei, Xiangyang; Hui, Haohao; Zhang, Qinghua; Deng, Xueran

2018-05-07

Moisture-resistant silicone coatings were prepared on the surface of potassium dihydrogen phosphate (KDP) crystal by means of spin-coating, in which hydrophobic-modified SiO₂ nanoparticles were embedded in a certain proportion. The refractive index of such coating can be tuned arbitrarily in the range of 1.21⁻1.44, which endows the KDP optical component with excellent transmission capability as well as the moisture proof effect. A dual-layer anti-reflective coating system was obtained by covering this silicone coating with a porous SiO₂ coating which is specially treated to enhance the moisture resistance. Transmittance of such a dual-layer coating system could reach 99.60% and 99.62% at 1064 nm and 532 nm, respectively, by precisely matching the refractive index of both layers. Furthermore, the long-term stability of this coating system has been verified at high humidity ambient of 80% RH for 27 weeks.

Measuring the Refractive Index of a Laser-Plasma Optical System

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Turnbull, D.; Goyon, C.; Pollock, B. B.; Mariscal, D.; Divol, L.; Ross, J. S.; Patankar, S.; Kemp, G. E.; Moody, J. D.; Michel, P. A.

2016-10-01

We report the first complete set of measurements of a laser-plasma optical system's refractive index, as seen by an independent probe laser beam, as a function of the relative wavelength shift between the two laser beams. Both the imaginary and real refractive-index components are found to be in good agreement with linear theory using plasma parameters measured by optical Thomson scattering and interferometry; the former is in contrast to previous work and has implications for cross-beam energy transfer in indirect-drive inertial confinement fusion, and the latter is measured for the first time. The data include the first demonstration of a laser-plasma polarizer with 85% to 87% extinction for the particular laser and plasma parameters used in this experiment, complementing the existing suite of high-power, tunable, and ultrafast plasma-based photonic devices. This work was performed under the auspices of the U.S. Department of Energy by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory under Contract DE-AC52-07NA27344.

Anisotropic power spectrum of refractive-index fluctuation in hypersonic turbulence.

PubMed

Li, Jiangting; Yang, Shaofei; Guo, Lixin; Cheng, Mingjian

2016-11-10

An anisotropic power spectrum of the refractive-index fluctuation in hypersonic turbulence was obtained by processing the experimental image of the hypersonic plasma sheath and transforming the generalized anisotropic von Kármán spectrum. The power spectrum suggested here can provide as good a fit to measured spectrum data for hypersonic turbulence as that recorded from the nano-planar laser scattering image. Based on the newfound anisotropic hypersonic turbulence power spectrum, Rytov approximation was employed to establish the wave structure function and the spatial coherence radius model of electromagnetic beam propagation in hypersonic turbulence. Enhancing the anisotropy characteristics of the hypersonic turbulence led to a significant improvement in the propagation performance of electromagnetic beams in hypersonic plasma sheath. The influence of hypersonic turbulence on electromagnetic beams increases with the increase of variance of the refractive-index fluctuation and the decrease of turbulence outer scale and anisotropy parameters. The spatial coherence radius was much smaller than that in atmospheric turbulence. These results are fundamental to understanding electromagnetic wave propagation in hypersonic turbulence.

Influence of the nitrogen content on the optical properties of CNx films.

PubMed

Abd El-Kader, F H; Moharram, M A; Khafagia, M G; Mamdouh, Fathia

2012-11-01

Polycrystalline carbon nitride thin films were prepared by electrolysis of methanol-urea solution at different concentrations of urea to methanol and applied voltage 800 volts for 10h. Grazing incidence X-ray diffraction (GIXRD) revealed that the crystalline structure of carbon nitride films at moderate nitrogen content changed from amorphous phase to polycrystalline α-C(3)N(4), and β-C(3)N(4) phases. The optical transmission analysis of the films revealed that the band gap value for indirect allowed transitions increased with increasing nitrogen content, while the associated phonon energy value showed the opposite behavior. The refractive index and the extinction coefficient of the samples deposited with different concentrations were determined as a function of wavelength. The refractive index decreases with increasing both nitrogen content and crystallinity. The refractive index dispersion for the investigated samples is discussed in terms of the single oscillator model and oscillator parameters. Copyright © 2012. Published by Elsevier B.V.

Determining thickness and refractive index from free-standing ultra-thin polymer films with spectroscopic ellipsometry

DOE PAGES

Hilfiker, James N.; Stadermann, Michael; Sun, Jianing; ...

2016-08-27

It is a well-known challenge to determine refractive index (n) from ultra-thin films where the thickness is less than about 10 nm. In this paper, we discovered an interesting exception to this issue while characterizing spectroscopic ellipsometry (SE) data from isotropic, free-standing polymer films. Ellipsometry analysis shows that both thickness and refractive index can be independently determined for free-standing films as thin as 5 nm. Simulations further confirm an orthogonal separation between thickness and index effects on the experimental SE data. Effects of angle of incidence and wavelength on the data and sensitivity are discussed. Finally, while others have demonstratedmore » methods to determine refractive index from ultra-thin films, our analysis provides the first results to demonstrate high-sensitivity to the refractive index from ultra-thin layers.« less

Method and apparatus for determining peak temperature along an optical fiber

DOEpatents

Fox, R.J.

1982-07-29

The invention relates to a new method and new apparatus for determining the hottest temperature or the coldest temperature prevailing along the length of an optical-fiber light guide. The invention is conducted with an optical fiber capable of supporting multidiode propagation of light and comprising a core, a cladding, and a jacket. The core is selected to have (1) a higher refractive index than the core and the cladding and (2) a relatively high negative temperature coefficient of refractive index. A light beam capable of establishing substantially single-mode propagation in the core is launched into an end thereof at an angle to the axis. The angle is increased to effect the onset of light fraction from the core into the cladding. The value of the launch angle corresponding to the onset is determined and then used to establish the refractive index of the core corresponding to the onset angle. The maximum temperature prevailing along the fiber then is determined from the (1) refractive index so determined and (2) the temperature coefficient of refractive index for the core. The invention is based on the finding that the launch angle corresponding to the onset of refraction into the cladding is uniquely determined by the maximum value of the ratio of the core refractive index to the cladding refractive index, which maximum occurs at the hottest point along the fiber.

Refractive index, molar refraction and comparative refractive index study of propylene carbonate binary liquid mixtures.

PubMed

Wankhede, Dnyaneshwar Shamrao

2012-06-01

Refractive indices (n) have been experimentally determined for the binary liquid-liquid mixtures of Propylene carbonate (PC) (1) with benzene, ethylbenzene, o-xylene and p-xylene (2) at 298.15, 303.15 and 308.15 K over the entire mole fraction range. The experimental values of n are utilised to calculate deviation in refractive index (Δn), molar refraction (R) and deviation in molar refraction (ΔR). A comparative study of Arago-Biot (A-B), Newton (NW), Eyring and John (E-J) equations for determining refractive index of a liquid has been carried out to test their validity for all the binary mixtures over the entire composition range at 298.15 K. Comparison of various mixing relations is represented in terms of average deviation (AVD). The Δn and ΔR values have been fitted to Redlich-Kister equation at 298.15 K and standard deviations have been calculated. The results are discussed in terms of intermolecular interactions present amongst the components.

Determination of refractive index, size, and concentration of nonabsorbing colloidal nanoparticles from measurements of the complex effective refractive index.

PubMed

Márquez-Islas, Roberto; Sánchez-Pérez, Celia; García-Valenzuela, Augusto

2014-02-01

We describe a method for obtaining the refractive index (RI), size, and concentration of nonabsorbing nanoparticles in suspension from relatively simple optical measurements. The method requires measuring the complex effective RI of two dilute suspensions of the particles in liquids of different refractive indices. We describe the theoretical basis of the proposed method and provide experimental results validating the procedure.

Method of producing optical quality glass having a selected refractive index

DOEpatents

Poco, John F.; Hrubesh, Lawrence W.

2000-01-01

Optical quality glass having a selected refractive index is produced by a two stage drying process. A gel is produced using sol-gel chemistry techniques and first dried by controlled evaporation until the gel volume reaches a pre-selected value. This pre-selected volume determines the density and refractive index of the finally dried gel. The gel is refilled with solvent in a saturated vapor environment, and then dried again by supercritical extraction of the solvent to form a glass. The glass has a refractive index less than the full density of glass, and the range of achievable refractive indices depends on the composition of the glass. Glasses having different refractive indices chosen from an uninterrupted range of values can be produced from a single precursor solution.

Numerical methods for the design of gradient-index optical coatings.

PubMed

Anzengruber, Stephan W; Klann, Esther; Ramlau, Ronny; Tonova, Diana

2012-12-01

We formulate the problem of designing gradient-index optical coatings as the task of solving a system of operator equations. We use iterative numerical procedures known from the theory of inverse problems to solve it with respect to the coating refractive index profile and thickness. The mathematical derivations necessary for the application of the procedures are presented, and different numerical methods (Landweber, Newton, and Gauss-Newton methods, Tikhonov minimization with surrogate functionals) are implemented. Procedures for the transformation of the gradient coating designs into quasi-gradient ones (i.e., multilayer stacks of homogeneous layers with different refractive indices) are also developed. The design algorithms work with physically available coating materials that could be produced with the modern coating technologies.

Note: Index of refraction measurement using the Fresnel equations.

PubMed

McClymer, J P

2014-08-01

The real part of the refractive index is measured from 1.30 to above 3.00 without the use of index matching fluids. This approach expands upon the Brewster angle technique as both S and P polarized lights are used and the full Fresnel equations fitted to the data to extract the index of refraction using nonlinear curve fitting.

Optofluidic refractive-index sensor in step-index fiber with parallel hollow micro-channel.

PubMed

Lee, H W; Schmidt, M A; Uebel, P; Tyagi, H; Joly, N Y; Scharrer, M; Russell, P St J

2011-04-25

We present a simple refractive index sensor based on a step-index fiber with a hollow micro-channel running parallel to its core. This channel becomes waveguiding when filled with a liquid of index greater than silica, causing sharp dips to appear in the transmission spectrum at wavelengths where the glass-core mode phase-matches to a mode of the liquid-core. The sensitivity of the dip-wavelengths to changes in liquid refractive index is quantified and the results used to study the dynamic flow characteristics of fluids in narrow channels. Potential applications of this fiber microstructure include measuring the optical properties of liquids, refractive index sensing, biophotonics and studies of fluid dynamics on the nanoscale.

Radiation characteristics and effective optical properties of dumbbell-shaped cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heng, Ri-Liang; Pilon, Laurent

2016-05-01

This study presents experimental measurements of the radiation characteristics of unicellular freshwater cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. during their exponential growth in F medium. Their scattering phase function at 633 nm average spectral absorption and scattering cross-sections between 400 and 750 nm were measured. In addition, an inverse method was used for retrieving the spectral effective complex index of refraction of overlapping or touching bispheres and quadspheres from their absorption and scattering cross-sections. The inverse method combines a genetic algorithm and a forward model based on Lorenz-Mie theory, treating bispheres and quadspheres as projected area and volume-equivalent coated spheres. The inverse method was successfully validated with numerically predicted average absorption and scattering cross-sections of suspensions consisting of bispheres and quadspheres, with realistic size distributions, using the T-matrix method. It was able to retrieve the monomers' complex index of refraction with size parameter up to 11, relative refraction index less than 1.3, and absorption index less than 0.1. Then, the inverse method was applied to retrieve the effective spectral complex index of refraction of Synechocystis sp. approximated as randomly oriented aggregates consisting of two overlapping homogeneous spheres. Both the measured absorption cross-section and the retrieved absorption index featured peaks at 435 and 676 nm corresponding to chlorophyll a, a peak at 625 nm corresponding to phycocyanin, and a shoulder around 485 nm corresponding to carotenoids. These results can be used to optimize and control light transfer in photobioreactors. The inverse method and the equivalent coated sphere model could be applied to other optically soft particles of similar morphologies.

Options for refractive index and viscosity matching to study variable density flows

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Clément, Simon A.; Guillemain, Anaïs; McCleney, Amy B.; Bardet, Philippe M.

2018-02-01

Variable density flows are often studied by mixing two miscible aqueous solutions of different densities. To perform optical diagnostics in such environments, the refractive index of the fluids must be matched, which can be achieved by carefully choosing the two solutes and the concentration of the solutions. To separate the effects of buoyancy forces and viscosity variations, it is desirable to match the viscosity of the two solutions in addition to their refractive index. In this manuscript, several pairs of index matched fluids are compared in terms of viscosity matching, monetary cost, and practical use. Two fluid pairs are studied in detail, with two aqueous solutions (binary solutions of water and a salt or alcohol) mixed into a ternary solution. In each case: an aqueous solution of isopropanol mixed with an aqueous solution of sodium chloride (NaCl) and an aqueous solution of glycerol mixed with an aqueous solution of sodium sulfate (Na_2SO_4). The first fluid pair allows reaching high-density differences at low cost, but brings a large difference in dynamic viscosity. The second allows matching dynamic viscosity and refractive index simultaneously, at reasonable cost. For each of these four solutes, the density, kinematic viscosity, and refractive index are measured versus concentration and temperature, as well as wavelength for the refractive index. To investigate non-linear effects when two index-matched, binary solutions are mixed, the ternary solutions formed are also analyzed. Results show that density and refractive index follow a linear variation with concentration. However, the viscosity of the isopropanol and NaCl pair deviates from the linear law and has to be considered. Empirical correlations and their coefficients are given to create index-matched fluids at a chosen temperature and wavelength. Finally, the effectiveness of the refractive index matching is illustrated with particle image velocimetry measurements performed for a buoyant jet in a linearly stratified environment. The creation of the index-matched solutions and linear stratification in a large-scale experimental facility are detailed, as well as the practical challenges to obtain precise refractive index matching.

Construction of Lines of Constant Density and Constant Refractive Index for Ternary Liquid Mixtures.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Tasic, Aleksandar Z.; Djordjevic, Bojan D.

1983-01-01

Demonstrates construction of density constant and refractive index constant lines in triangular coordinate system on basis of systematic experimental determinations of density and refractive index for both homogeneous (single-phase) ternary liquid mixtures (of known composition) and the corresponding binary compositions. Background information,…

Plasmas with an index of refraction greater than 1.

PubMed

Nilsen, Joseph; Scofield, James H

2004-11-15

Over the past decade, x-ray lasers in the wavelength range 14-47 nm have been used for interferometry of plasmas. As in optical interferometry of plasmas, the experimental analysis assumed that the index of refraction is due only to free electrons. This makes the index of refraction less than 1. Recent experiments in A1 plasmas have shown fringe lines bending the wrong way as though the electron density were negative. We show how the bound electrons can dominate the index of refraction in many plasmas and make the index greater than 1 or enhance the index such that one would greatly overestimate the density of the plasma using interferometry.

Enhancing intensity and refractive index sensing capability with infrared plasmonic perfect absorbers.

PubMed

Cheng, Fei; Yang, Xiaodong; Gao, Jie

2014-06-01

An infrared refractive index sensor based on plasmonic perfect absorbers for glucose concentration sensing is experimentally demonstrated. Utilizing substantial absorption contrast between a perfect absorber (∼98% at normal incidence) and a non-perfect absorber upon the refractive index change, a maximum value of figure of merit (FOM^*) about 55 and a bulk wavelength sensitivity about 590  nm/RIU are achieved. The demonstrated sensing platform provides great potential in improving the performance of plasmonic refractive index sensors and developing future surface enhanced infrared spectroscopy.

Reflectivity of a disordered monolayer estimated by graded refractive index and scattering models.

PubMed

Diamant, Ruth; Garcí-Valenzuela, Augusto; Fernández-Guasti, Manuel

2012-09-01

Reflectivity of a random monolayer, consisting of transparent spherical particles, is estimated using a graded refractive index model, an effective medium approach, and two scattering models. Two cases, a self-standing film and one with a substrate, are considered. Neither the surrounding medium nor the substrate are absorbing materials. Results at normal incidence, with different particle sizes, covering ratios and refractive indexes, are compared. The purpose of this work is to find under which circumstances, for reflectivity at normal incidence, a particle monolayer behaves as a graded refractive index film.

Groove micro-structure optical fiber refractive index sensor with nanoscale gold film based on surface plasmon resonance

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Zhen; Li, Shuguang; Liu, Qiang; Feng, Xinxing; Zhang, Shuhuan; Wang, Yujun; Wu, Junjun

2018-07-01

A groove micro-structure optical fiber refractive index sensor with nanoscale gold film based on surface plasmon resonance (SPR) is proposed and analyzed by the finite element method (FEM). Numerical results show that the average sensitivity is 15,933 nm/refractive index unit (RIU) with the refractive index of analyte ranging from 1.40 to 1.43 and the maximum sensitivity is 28,600 nm/RIU and the resolution of the sensor is 3.50 × 10-8 RIU. The groove micro-structure optical fiber refractive index sensor do some changes on the D-shaped fiber sensor, compared with conventional D-shaped fiber sensor, it has a higher sensitivity and it is easier to produce than the traditional SPR sensor.

Refractive index modulation in LiNbO3: MgO slab through Lamb wave

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prakash, Suraj; Sharma, Gaurav; Yadav, Gulab Chand; Singh, Vivek

2018-05-01

Present theoretical analysis deals with inducing refractive index contrast in Y-Z LiNbO3:MgO plate via GHz Lamb wave perturbation for photonic applications. Dispersion curves for Lamb wave in plate are plotted by employing displacement potential technique. Selecting wave parameters from dispersion curve, fundamental symmetric Lamb mode (S0) is excited in slab for 6GHz frequency. Produced displacement field by propagating S0 mode and thus developed strain is estimated to calculate refractive index modulation by applying photo-elastic relations. Modulated refractive index is of sinusoidal nature with period of modulation dependence on Lamb's wavelength. This plate having periodically modulated refractive index can be used as photonic crystal for different applications with acoustically tunable photonic band gap.

Simultaneous measurements of absorption spectrum and refractive index in a microfluidic system.

PubMed

Helseth, Lars Egil

2012-02-13

The characterization of dyes in various solvents requires determination of the absorption spectrum of the dye as well as the refractive index of the solvent. Typically, the refractive index of the solvent and the absorption spectrum of the solute are measured using separate experimental setups where significant liquid volumes are required. In this work the first optical measurement system that is able to do simultaneous measurements of the refractive index of the solvent and the spectral properties of the solute in a microscopic volume is presented. The laser dye Rhodamine 6G in glycerol is investigated, and the refractive index of the solution is monitored using the interference pattern of the light scattered off the channel, while its spectral properties is found by monitoring reflected light from the channel.

Refractive index and absorption detector for liquid chromatography based on Fabry-Perot interferometry

DOEpatents

Yeung, E.S.; Woodruff, S.D.

1984-06-19

A refractive index and absorption detector are disclosed for liquid chromatography. It is based in part on a Fabry-Perot interferometer and is used for the improved detection of refractive index and absorption. It includes a Fabry-Perot interferometer having a normally fixed first partially reflecting mirror and a movable second partially reflecting mirror. A chromatographic flow-cell is positioned between the mirrors along the optical axis of a monochromatic laser beam passing through the interferometer. A means for deriving information about the interference fringes coming out of the interferometer is used with a mini-computer to compute the refractive index of the specimen injected into the flow cell. The minicomputer continuously scans the interferometer for continuous refractive index readings and outputs the continuous results of the scans on a chart recorder. The absorption of the specimen can concurrently be scanned by including a second optical path for an excitation laser which will not interfere with the first laser, but will affect the specimen so that absorption properties can be detected. By first scanning for the refractive index of the specimen, and then immediately adding the excitation laser and subsequently scanning for the refractive index again, the absorption of the specimen can be computed and recorded. 10 figs.

Refractive index and absorption detector for liquid chromatography based on Fabry-Perot interferometry

DOEpatents

Yeung, Edward S.; Woodruff, Steven D.

1984-06-19

A refractive index and absorption detector for liquid chromatography. It is based in part on a Fabry-Perot interferometer and is used for the improved detection of refractive index and absorption. It includes a Fabry-Perot interferometer having a normally fixed first partially reflecting mirror and a movable second partially reflecting mirror. A chromatographic flow-cell is positioned between the mirrors along the optical axis of a monochromatic laser beam passing through the interferometer. A means for deriving information about the interference fringes coming out of the interferometer is used with a mini-computer to compute the refractive index of the specimen injected into the flow cell. The minicomputer continuously scans the interferometer for continuous refractive index readings and outputs the continuous results of the scans on a chart recorder. The absorption of the specimen can concurrently be scanned by including a second optical path for an excitation laser which will not interfere with the first laser, but will affect the specimen so that absorption properties can be detected. By first scanning for the refractive index of the specimen, and then immediately adding the excitation laser and subsequently scanning for the refractive index again, the absorption of the specimen can be computed and recorded.

Recovering fluorophore concentration profiles from confocal images near lateral refractive index step changes.

PubMed

Jonášová, Eleonóra Parelius; Bjørkøy, Astrid; Stokke, Bjørn Torger

2016-12-01

Optical aberrations due to refractive index mismatches occur in various types of microscopy due to refractive differences between the sample and the immersion fluid or within the sample. We study the effects of lateral refractive index differences by fluorescence confocal laser scanning microscopy due to glass or polydimethylsiloxane cuboids and glass cylinders immersed in aqueous fluorescent solution, thereby mimicking realistic imaging situations in the proximity of these materials. The reduction in fluorescence intensity near the embedded objects was found to depend on the geometry and the refractive index difference between the object and the surrounding solution. The observed fluorescence intensity gradients do not reflect the fluorophore concentration in the solution. It is suggested to apply a Gaussian fit or smoothing to the observed fluorescence intensity gradient and use this as a basis to recover the fluorophore concentration in the proximity of the refractive index step change. The method requires that the reference and sample objects have the same geometry and refractive index. The best results were obtained when the sample objects were also used for reference since small differences such as uneven surfaces will result in a different extent of aberration.

Curvature of the localized surface plasmon resonance peak.

PubMed

Chen, Peng; Liedberg, Bo

2014-08-05

Localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) occurring in noble metal nanoparticles (e.g., Au) is a widely used phenomenon to report molecular interactions. Traditional LSPR sensors typically monitor shifts in the peak position or extinction in response to local refractive index changes in the close vicinity of the nanoparticle surface. The ability to resolve minute shifts/extinction changes is to a large extent limited by instrumental noise. A new strategy to evaluate LSPR responses utilizing changes in the shape of the extinction spectrum (the curvature) is proposed. The response of curvature to refractive index changes is investigated theoretically using Mie theory and an analytical expression relating the curvature to the refractive index is presented. The experimentally derived curvatures for 13 nm spherical gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) exposed to solvents with different bulk refractive indices confirm the theoretical predictions. Moreover, both the calculated and experimental findings suggest that the curvature is approximately a linear function of refractive index in regimes relevant to bio and chemical sensing. We demonstrate that curvature is superior over peak shift and extinction both in terms of signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio and reliability of LSPR sensors. With a curvature, one could readily monitor submonolayer adsorption of a low molecular weight thiol molecule (M(w) = 458.6) onto 13 nm AuNPs. It is also worthwhile mentioning that curvature is virtually insensitive to instrumental instabilities and artifacts occurring during measurement. Instabilities such as baseline tilt and shift, shift in peak position as well as sharp spikes/steps in the extinction spectra do not induce artifacts in the sensorgrams of curvature.

Brewster-angle 50%-50% beam splitter for p-polarized infrared light using a high-index quarter-wave layer deposited on a low-index prism.

PubMed

Azzam, R M A

2017-08-10

A quarter-wave layer (QWL) of high refractive index, which is deposited on a transparent prism of low refractive index, can be designed to split an incident p-polarized light beam at the Brewster angle (BA) of the air-substrate interface into p-polarized reflected and transmitted beams of equal intensity (50% each) that travel in orthogonal directions. For reflection of p-polarized light at the BA, the supported QWL functions as a free-standing (unsupported) pellicle. An exemplary design is presented that uses Si x Ge 1-x QWL deposited on an IRTRAN1 prism for applications (such as Michelson and Mach-Zehnder interferometry) with a variable compositional fraction x in the 2-6 μm mid-IR spectral range.

Determining index of refraction from polarimetric hyperspectral radiance measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martin, Jacob A.; Gross, Kevin C.

2015-09-01

Polarimetric hyperspectral imaging (P-HSI) combines two of the most common remote sensing modalities. This work leverages the combination of these techniques to improve material classification. Classifying and identifying materials requires parameters which are invariant to changing viewing conditions, and most often a material's reflectivity or emissivity is used. Measuring these most often requires assumptions be made about the material and atmospheric conditions. Combining both polarimetric and hyperspectral imaging, we propose a method to remotely estimate the index of refraction of a material. In general, this is an underdetermined problem because both the real and imaginary components of index of refraction are unknown at every spectral point. By modeling the spectral variation of the index of refraction using a few parameters, however, the problem can be made overdetermined. A number of different functions can be used to describe this spectral variation, and some are discussed here. Reducing the number of spectral parameters to fit allows us to add parameters which estimate atmospheric downwelling radiance and transmittance. Additionally, the object temperature is added as a fit parameter. The set of these parameters that best replicate the measured data is then found using a bounded Nelder-Mead simplex search algorithm. Other search algorithms are also examined and discussed. Results show that this technique has promise but also some limitations, which are the subject of ongoing work.

Liquid refractive index sensing independent of opacity using an optofluidic diffraction sensor.

PubMed

Xu, Zhida; Han, Kevin; Khan, Ibrahim; Wang, Xinhao; Liu, G Logan

2014-10-15

We have implemented a multifunctional optofluidic sensor that can monitor changes in the refractive index and pressure of biofluid simultaneously and can detect free-solution molecular interaction in situ. In this Letter, we demonstrate two major improvements of this sensor proven by both simulation and experiments. One improvement is the broader measurement range of refractive index by making the diffraction grating with high-index polymer. The other improvement is the separation of refractive index sensing from opacity sensing by using the relative power ratio of diffraction orders. This simple, compact and low-cost multifunctional optofluidic sensor has the potential to be used for in situ biofluid monitoring.

Adaptive Optoelectronic Eyes: Hybrid Sensor/Processor Architectures

DTIC Science & Technology

2006-11-13

corresponding calculated data. The width of the mirror stopband is proportional to the refractive index difference between the high and low index materials ...Silicon VLSI Neuron Unit Arrays 56 Development of a Single-Sided Flip-Chip Bonding Process 65 Development of High Refractive Index Diffractive Optical ...Elements (DOEs) 68 Development of High-Performance Antireflection Coatings for High Refractive Index DOEs 69 Design and Fabrication of Low Threshold

Vacuum birefringence in strong magnetic fields: (II) Complex refractive index from the lowest Landau level

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hattori, Koichi, E-mail: khattori@yonsei.ac.kr; Itakura, Kazunori, E-mail: kazunori.itakura@kek.jp; Department of Particle and Nuclear Studies, Graduate University for Advanced Studies

2013-07-15

We compute the refractive indices of a photon propagating in strong magnetic fields on the basis of the analytic representation of the vacuum polarization tensor obtained in our previous paper. When the external magnetic field is strong enough for the fermion one-loop diagram of the polarization tensor to be approximated by the lowest Landau level, the propagating mode in parallel to the magnetic field is subject to modification: The refractive index deviates from unity and can be very large, and when the photon energy is large enough, the refractive index acquires an imaginary part indicating decay of a photon intomore » a fermion–antifermion pair. We study dependences of the refractive index on the propagating angle and the magnetic-field strength. It is also emphasized that a self-consistent treatment of the equation which defines the refractive index is indispensable for accurate description of the refractive index. This self-consistent treatment physically corresponds to consistently including the effects of back reactions of the distorted Dirac sea in response to the incident photon. -- Highlights: •Vacuum birefringence and photon decay are described by the complex refractive index. •Resummed photon vacuum polarization tensor in the lowest Landau level is used. •Back reactions from the distorted Dirac sea are self-consistently taken into account. •Self-consistent treatment drastically changes structure in photon energy dependence. •Dependences on photon propagation angle and magnetic-field strength are presented.« less

Effects of refractive index mismatch in optical CT imaging of polymer gel dosimeters.

PubMed

Manjappa, Rakesh; Makki S, Sharath; Kumar, Rajesh; Kanhirodan, Rajan

2015-02-01

Proposing an image reconstruction technique, algebraic reconstruction technique-refraction correction (ART-rc). The proposed method takes care of refractive index mismatches present in gel dosimeter scanner at the boundary, and also corrects for the interior ray refraction. Polymer gel dosimeters with high dose regions have higher refractive index and optical density compared to the background medium, these changes in refractive index at high dose results in interior ray bending. The inclusion of the effects of refraction is an important step in reconstruction of optical density in gel dosimeters. The proposed ray tracing algorithm models the interior multiple refraction at the inhomogeneities. Jacob's ray tracing algorithm has been modified to calculate the pathlengths of the ray that traverses through the higher dose regions. The algorithm computes the length of the ray in each pixel along its path and is used as the weight matrix. Algebraic reconstruction technique and pixel based reconstruction algorithms are used for solving the reconstruction problem. The proposed method is tested with numerical phantoms for various noise levels. The experimental dosimetric results are also presented. The results show that the proposed scheme ART-rc is able to reconstruct optical density inside the dosimeter better than the results obtained using filtered backprojection and conventional algebraic reconstruction approaches. The quantitative improvement using ART-rc is evaluated using gamma-index. The refraction errors due to regions of different refractive indices are discussed. The effects of modeling of interior refraction in the dose region are presented. The errors propagated due to multiple refraction effects have been modeled and the improvements in reconstruction using proposed model is presented. The refractive index of the dosimeter has a mismatch with the surrounding medium (for dry air or water scanning). The algorithm reconstructs the dose profiles by estimating refractive indices of multiple inhomogeneities having different refractive indices and optical densities embedded in the dosimeter. This is achieved by tracking the path of the ray that traverses through the dosimeter. Extensive simulation studies have been carried out and results are found to be matching that of experimental results.

Effects of refractive index mismatch in optical CT imaging of polymer gel dosimeters

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Manjappa, Rakesh; Makki S, Sharath; Kanhirodan, Rajan, E-mail: rajan@physics.iisc.ernet.in

2015-02-15

Purpose: Proposing an image reconstruction technique, algebraic reconstruction technique-refraction correction (ART-rc). The proposed method takes care of refractive index mismatches present in gel dosimeter scanner at the boundary, and also corrects for the interior ray refraction. Polymer gel dosimeters with high dose regions have higher refractive index and optical density compared to the background medium, these changes in refractive index at high dose results in interior ray bending. Methods: The inclusion of the effects of refraction is an important step in reconstruction of optical density in gel dosimeters. The proposed ray tracing algorithm models the interior multiple refraction at themore » inhomogeneities. Jacob’s ray tracing algorithm has been modified to calculate the pathlengths of the ray that traverses through the higher dose regions. The algorithm computes the length of the ray in each pixel along its path and is used as the weight matrix. Algebraic reconstruction technique and pixel based reconstruction algorithms are used for solving the reconstruction problem. The proposed method is tested with numerical phantoms for various noise levels. The experimental dosimetric results are also presented. Results: The results show that the proposed scheme ART-rc is able to reconstruct optical density inside the dosimeter better than the results obtained using filtered backprojection and conventional algebraic reconstruction approaches. The quantitative improvement using ART-rc is evaluated using gamma-index. The refraction errors due to regions of different refractive indices are discussed. The effects of modeling of interior refraction in the dose region are presented. Conclusions: The errors propagated due to multiple refraction effects have been modeled and the improvements in reconstruction using proposed model is presented. The refractive index of the dosimeter has a mismatch with the surrounding medium (for dry air or water scanning). The algorithm reconstructs the dose profiles by estimating refractive indices of multiple inhomogeneities having different refractive indices and optical densities embedded in the dosimeter. This is achieved by tracking the path of the ray that traverses through the dosimeter. Extensive simulation studies have been carried out and results are found to be matching that of experimental results.« less

Femtosecond laser-induced refractive index modification in multicomponent glasses

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bhardwaj, V. R.; Simova, E.; Corkum, P. B.; Rayner, D. M.; Hnatovsky, C.; Taylor, R. S.; Schreder, B.; Kluge, M.; Zimmer, J.

2005-04-01

We present a comprehensive study on femtosecond laser-induced refractive index modification in a wide variety of multicomponent glasses grouped as borosilicate, aluminum-silicate, and heavy-metal oxide glasses along with lanthanum-borate and sodium-phosphate glasses. By using high-spatial resolution refractive index profiling techniques, we demonstrate that under a wide range of writing conditions the refractive index modification in multicomponent glasses can be positive, negative, or nonuniform, and exhibits a strong dependence on the glass composition. With the exception of some aluminum-silicate glasses all other glasses exhibited a negative/nonuniform index change. We also demonstrate direct writing of waveguides in photosensitive Foturan® glass with a femtosecond laser without initiating crystallization by thermal treatment. Upon ceramization of lithium-aluminum-silicate glasses such as Foturan®, Zerodur®, and Robax® we observe switching of laser-induced refractive index change from being positive to negative. The measured transmission losses in the waveguides at 1550nm agree with the index profile measurements in alkali-free aluminum-silicate glasses.

Homodyne chiral polarimetry for measuring thermo-optic refractive index variations.

PubMed

Twu, Ruey-Ching; Wang, Jhao-Sheng

2015-10-10

Novel reflection-type homodyne chiral polarimetry is proposed for measuring the refractive index variations of a transparent plate under thermal impact. The experimental results show it is a simple and useful method for providing accurate measurements of refractive index variations. The measurement can reach a resolution of 7×10^-5.

Refractive index of colloidal dispersions of spheroidal particles

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Meeten, G.H.

1980-09-01

The effect of particle shape on the refractive index of a colloidal dispersion of spheroidal particles is investigated theoretically, using the Rayleigh, Rayleigh- Gans-Debye, and the anomalous diffraction light-scattering approximations. It is shown that departure from particle sphericity modify the dispersion refractive index, both size and shape being of importance.

Photorefractive Nonlinear Optics

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-01-15

conjugate interferometer for the measurement of thin film thickness, refractive index and absorption coefficients. Also, we have investigated...conjugate interferometer for the measurement of thin film thickness, refractive index and absorption coefficients. Also, we have investigated...interaction by considering the refractive index grating as a linear superposition of the gratings from each of the frequency components of the

Femtosecond Z-scan measurements of the nonlinear refractive index of fused silica

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Lin; Shi, Zhendong; Ma, Hua; Ren, Huan; Yuan, Quan; Ma, Yurong; Feng, Xiaoxuan; Chen, Bo; Yang, Yi

2018-01-01

Z-scan technology is a popular experimental technique for determining the nonlinear refractive index of the material. However, it encounters a great difficulty in measuring the weak nonlinear material like fused silica which is about two orders of magnitude below the nonlinear refractive index of most of the materials studied with the nanosecond and picosecond Z-scan methods. In this case, the change of refractive index introduced by accumulation of thermal effects cannot be neglected. In order to have a reliable measurement of the nonlinear refractive index, a metrology bench based on the femtosecond Z-scan technology is developed. The intensity modulation component and the differential measurement system are applied to guarantee the accuracy of the measuring system. Based on the femtosecond Z-scan theory, the femtosecond laser Z-scan technique is performed on fused silica, and the nonlinear refractive index of Fused silica is determined to be 9.2039×10-14esu for 800nm, 37fs pulse duration at I0=50GW/cm2 with a good repeatability of 6.7%.

Small and large particle limits of single scattering albedo for homogeneous, spherical particles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moosmüller, H.; Sorensen, C. M.

2018-01-01

The aerosol single scattering albedo (SSA) is the dominant intensive particle parameter determining aerosols direct radiative forcing. For homogeneous spherical particles and a complex refractive index independent of wavelength, the SSA is solely dependent on size parameter (ratio of particle circumference and wavelength) and complex refractive index of the particle. Here, we explore this dependency for the small and large particle limits with size parameters much smaller and much larger than one. We show that in the small particle limit of Rayleigh scattering, a novel, generalized size parameter can be introduced that unifies the SSA dependence on particle size parameter independent of complex refractive index. In the large particle limit, SSA decreases with increasing product of imaginary part of the refractive index and size parameter, another generalized parameter, until this product becomes about one, then stays fairly constant until the imaginary part of the refractive index becomes comparable with the real part minus one. Beyond this point, particles start to acquire metallic character and SSA quickly increases with the imaginary part of the refractive index and approaches one.

Further Studies on the Effect of SiN x Refractive Index and Emitter Sheet Resistance on Potential-Induced Degradation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Oh, Jaewon; Dauksher, Bill; Bowden, Stuart

We present the impacts of silicon nitride (SiNx) antireflection coating refractive index and emitter sheet resistance on potential-induced degradation of the shunting type (PID-s). Previously, it has been shown that the cell becomes more PID-s-susceptible as the refractive index decreases or the emitter sheet resistance increases. To verify the effect of refractive index on PID-s, we fabricated cells with varying SiN x refractive index (1.87, 1.94, 2.05) on typical p-type base solar cells with ~60 Ω/sq emitters. However, none of these cells showed output power degradation, regardless of the refractive index. Further investigation of the emitter showed that the PID-smore » was suppressed at ~60 Ω/sq due to the extremely high surface phosphorus concentration (6 x 10 21 cm -3), as measured by secondary ion mass spectrometry. Furthermore, PID-s was observed on cells possessing a high emitter sheet resistance (~80 Ω/sq). In conclusion, the emitter surface phosphorus concentration plays an important role in determining PID-s susceptibility.« less

Further Studies on the Effect of SiN x Refractive Index and Emitter Sheet Resistance on Potential-Induced Degradation

DOE PAGES

Oh, Jaewon; Dauksher, Bill; Bowden, Stuart; ...

2017-01-11

We present the impacts of silicon nitride (SiNx) antireflection coating refractive index and emitter sheet resistance on potential-induced degradation of the shunting type (PID-s). Previously, it has been shown that the cell becomes more PID-s-susceptible as the refractive index decreases or the emitter sheet resistance increases. To verify the effect of refractive index on PID-s, we fabricated cells with varying SiN x refractive index (1.87, 1.94, 2.05) on typical p-type base solar cells with ~60 Ω/sq emitters. However, none of these cells showed output power degradation, regardless of the refractive index. Further investigation of the emitter showed that the PID-smore » was suppressed at ~60 Ω/sq due to the extremely high surface phosphorus concentration (6 x 10 21 cm -3), as measured by secondary ion mass spectrometry. Furthermore, PID-s was observed on cells possessing a high emitter sheet resistance (~80 Ω/sq). In conclusion, the emitter surface phosphorus concentration plays an important role in determining PID-s susceptibility.« less

Rotating of low-refractive-index microparticles with a quasi-perfect optical vortex.

PubMed

Liang, Yansheng; Lei, Ming; Yan, Shaohui; Li, Manman; Cai, Yanan; Wang, Zhaojun; Yu, Xianghua; Yao, Baoli

2018-01-01

Low-refractive-index microparticles, such as hollow microspheres, have shown great significance in some applications, such as biomedical sensing and targeted drug delivery. However, optical trapping and manipulation of low-refractive-index microparticles are challenging, owing to the repelling force exerted by typical optical traps. In this paper, we demonstrated optical trapping and rotating of large-sized low-refractive-index microparticles by using quasi-perfect optical vortex (quasi-POV) beams, which were generated by Fourier transform of high-order quasi-Bessel beams. Numerical simulation was carried out to characterize the focusing property of the quasi-POV beams. The dynamics of low-refractive-index microparticles in the quasi-POV with various topological charges was investigated in detail. To improve the trapping and rotating performances of the vortex, a point trap was introduced at the center of the ring. Experimental results showed that the quasi-POV was preferable for manipulation of large-sized low-refractive-index microparticles, with its control of the particles' rotating velocity dependent only on the topological charge due to the unchanged orbital radius.

High sensitivity refractive index sensor based on adiabatic tapered optical fiber deposited with nanofilm by ALD.

PubMed

Zhu, Shan; Pang, Fufei; Huang, Sujuan; Zou, Fang; Dong, Yanhua; Wang, Tingyun

2015-06-01

Atomic layer deposition (ALD) technology is introduced to fabricate a high sensitivity refractive index sensor based on an adiabatic tapered optical fiber. Different thickness of Al₂O₃ nanofilm is coated around fiber taper precisely and uniformly under different deposition cycles. Attributed to the high refractive index of the Al₂O₃ nanofilm, an asymmetry Fabry-Perot like interferometer is constructed along the fiber taper. Based on the ray-optic analysis, total internal reflection happens on the nanofilm-surrounding interface. With the ambient refractive index changing, the phase delay induced by the Goos-Hänchen shift is changed. Correspondingly, the transmission resonant spectrum shifts, which can be utilized for realizing high sensitivity sensor. The high sensitivity sensor with 6008 nm/RIU is demonstrated by depositing 3000 layers Al₂O₃ nanofilm as the ambient refractive index is close to 1.33. This high sensitivity refractive index sensor is expected to have wide applications in biochemical sensors.

Quantitative refractive index distribution of single cell by combining phase-shifting interferometry and AFM imaging.

PubMed

Zhang, Qinnan; Zhong, Liyun; Tang, Ping; Yuan, Yingjie; Liu, Shengde; Tian, Jindong; Lu, Xiaoxu

2017-05-31

Cell refractive index, an intrinsic optical parameter, is closely correlated with the intracellular mass and concentration. By combining optical phase-shifting interferometry (PSI) and atomic force microscope (AFM) imaging, we constructed a label free, non-invasive and quantitative refractive index of single cell measurement system, in which the accurate phase map of single cell was retrieved with PSI technique and the cell morphology with nanoscale resolution was achieved with AFM imaging. Based on the proposed AFM/PSI system, we achieved quantitative refractive index distributions of single red blood cell and Jurkat cell, respectively. Further, the quantitative change of refractive index distribution during Daunorubicin (DNR)-induced Jurkat cell apoptosis was presented, and then the content changes of intracellular biochemical components were achieved. Importantly, these results were consistent with Raman spectral analysis, indicating that the proposed PSI/AFM based refractive index system is likely to become a useful tool for intracellular biochemical components analysis measurement, and this will facilitate its application for revealing cell structure and pathological state from a new perspective.

High refractive index immersion liquid for superresolution 3D imaging using sapphire-based aplanatic numerical aperture increasing lens optics.

PubMed

Laskar, Junaid M; Shravan Kumar, P; Herminghaus, Stephan; Daniels, Karen E; Schröter, Matthias

2016-04-20

Optically transparent immersion liquids with refractive index (n∼1.77) to match the sapphire-based aplanatic numerical aperture increasing lens (aNAIL) are necessary for achieving deep 3D imaging with high spatial resolution. We report that antimony tribromide (SbBr₃) salt dissolved in liquid diiodomethane (CH₂I₂) provides a new high refractive index immersion liquid for optics applications. The refractive index is tunable from n=1.74 (pure) to n=1.873 (saturated), by adjusting either salt concentration or temperature; this allows it to match (or even exceed) the refractive index of sapphire. Importantly, the solution gives excellent light transmittance in the ultraviolet to near-infrared range, an improvement over commercially available immersion liquids. This refractive-index-matched immersion liquid formulation has enabled us to develop a sapphire-based aNAIL objective that has both high numerical aperture (NA=1.17) and long working distance (WD=12  mm). This opens up new possibilities for deep 3D imaging with high spatial resolution.

Wave refraction in negative-index media: always positive and very inhomogeneous.

PubMed

Valanju, P M; Walser, R M; Valanju, A P

2002-05-06

We present the first treatment of the refraction of physical electromagnetic waves in newly developed negative index media (NIM), also known as left-handed media (LHM). The NIM dispersion relation implies that group fronts refract positively even when phase fronts refract negatively. This difference results in rapidly dispersing, very inhomogeneous waves. In fact, causality and finite signal speed always prevent negative wave signal (not phase) refraction. Earlier interpretations of phase refraction as "negative light refraction" and "light focusing by plane slabs" are therefore incorrect, and published NIM experiments can be explained without invoking negative signal refraction.

Cryogenic Refractive Indices of S-LAH55, S-LAH55V, S-LAH59, S-LAM3, S-NBM51, S-NPH2, S-PHM52, and S-TIH14 Glasses

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miller, Kevin H.; Quijada, Manuel A.; Leviton, Doug

2015-01-01

The Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) is an explorer-class planet finder, whose principal goal is to detect small planets with bright host starts in the solar neighborhood. The TESS payload consists of four identical cameras with seven optical elements each that include various types of Ohara glass substrates. The successful implementation both panchromatic and thermal lens assembly designs for these cameras requires a fairly accurate (up to 1E-6) knowledge of the temperature and wavelength dependence of the refractive index in the wavelength and temperature range of operation. Hence, this paper is devoted to report on measurements of the refractive index over the wavelength range of 0.42-1.15 um and temperature range of 110-310 K for the following Ohara glasses: S-LAH55, S-LAH55V, SLAH59, S-LAM3, S-NBM51, S-NPH2, S-PHM52, and S-TIH14. The measurements were performed utilizing the Cryogenic High Accuracy Refraction Measuring System (CHARMS) facility at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. A dense coverage of the absolute refractive index for the title substrates in the aforementioned wavelength and temperature ranges was used to determine the thermo-optic coefficient (dn/dT) and dispersion relation (dn/d lambda) as a function of wavelength and temperature. A comparison of the measured indices with literature values, specifically the temperature-dependent refractive indices of S-PHM52 and S-TIH14, will be presented.

The role of macromolecular crowding in the evolution of lens crystallins with high molecular refractive index.

PubMed

Zhao, Huaying; Magone, M Teresa; Schuck, Peter

2011-08-01

Crystallins are present in the lens at extremely high concentrations in order to provide transparency and generate a high refractive power of the lens. The crystallin families prevalent in the highest density lens tissues are γ-crystallins in vertebrates and S-crystallins in cephalopods. As shown elsewhere, in parallel evolution, both have evolved molecular refractive index increments 5-10% above those of most proteins. Although this is a small increase, it is statistically very significant and can be achieved only by very unusual amino acid compositions. In contrast, such a molecular adaptation to aid in the refractive function of the lens did not occur in crystallins that are preferentially located in lower density lens tissues, such as vertebrate α-crystallin and taxon-specific crystallins. In the current work, we apply a model of non-interacting hard spheres to examine the thermodynamic contributions of volume exclusion at lenticular protein concentrations. We show that the small concentration decrease afforded by the higher molecular refractive index increment of crystallins can amplify nonlinearly to produce order of magnitude differences in chemical activities, and lead to reduced osmotic pressure and the reduced propensity for protein aggregation. Quantitatively, this amplification sets in only at protein concentrations as high as those found in hard lenses or the nucleus of soft lenses, in good correspondence to the observed crystallin properties in different tissues and different species. This suggests that volume exclusion effects provide the evolutionary driving force for the unusual refractive properties and the unusual amino acid compositions of γ-crystallins and S-crystallins.

The role of macromolecular crowding in the evolution of lens crystallins with high molecular refractive index

PubMed Central

Zhao, Huaying; Magone, M. Teresa; Schuck, Peter

2011-01-01

Crystallins are present in the lens at extremely high concentrations in order to provide transparency and generate a high refractive power of the lens. The crystallin families prevalent in the highest density lens tissues are γ crystallins in vertebrates and S crystallins in cephalopods. In parallel evolution, both have evolved molecular refractive index increments 5 – 10 % above those of most proteins. Although this is a small increase, it is statistically very significant and can be achieved only by very unusual amino acid compositions. In contrast, such a molecular adaptation to aid in the refractive function of the lens did not occur in crystallins that are preferentially located in lower density lens tissues, such as vertebrate α crystallin and taxon specific crystallins. In the current work, we apply a model of non-interacting hard spheres to examine the thermodynamic contributions of volume exclusion at lenticular protein concentrations. We show that the small concentration decrease afforded by the higher molecular refractive index increment of crystallins can amplify nonlinearly to produce order of magnitude differences in chemical activities, and lead to reduced osmotic pressure and the reduced propensity for protein aggregation. Quantitatively, this amplification sets in only at protein concentrations as high as those found in hard lenses or the nucleus of soft lenses, in good correspondence to the observed crystalline properties in different tissues and different species. This suggests that volume exclusion effects provide the evolutionary driving force for the unusual refractive properties and the unusual amino acid compositions of γ crystallins and S crystallins. PMID:21566271

Tunable Liquid Gradient Refractive Index (L-GRIN) lens with two degrees of freedom.

PubMed

Mao, Xiaole; Lin, Sz-Chin Steven; Lapsley, Michael Ian; Shi, Jinjie; Juluri, Bala Krishna; Huang, Tony Jun

2009-07-21

We report a tunable optofluidic microlens configuration named the Liquid Gradient Refractive Index (L-GRIN) lens for focusing light within a microfluidic device. The focusing of light was achieved through the gradient refractive index (GRIN) within the liquid medium, rather than via curved refractive lens surfaces. The diffusion of solute (CaCl(2)) between side-by-side co-injected microfluidic laminar flows was utilized to establish a hyperbolic secant (HS) refractive index profile to focus light. Tailoring the refractive index profile by adjusting the flow conditions enables not only tuning of the focal distance (translation mode), but also shifting of the output light direction (swing mode), a second degree of freedom that to our knowledge has yet to be accomplished for in-plane tunable microlenses. Advantages of the L-GRIN lens also include a low fluid consumption rate, competitive focusing performance, and high compatibility with existing microfluidic devices. This work provides a new strategy for developing integrative tunable microlenses for a variety of lab-on-a-chip applications.

An Accurate Analytic Approximation for Light Scattering by Non-absorbing Spherical Aerosol Particles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lewis, E. R.

2017-12-01

The scattering of light by particles in the atmosphere is a ubiquitous and important phenomenon, with applications to numerous fields of science and technology. The problem of scattering of electromagnetic radiation by a uniform spherical particle can be solved by the method of Mie and Debye as a series of terms depending on the size parameter, x=2πr/λ, and the complex index of refraction, m. However, this solution does not provide insight into the dependence of the scattering on the radius of the particle, the wavelength, or the index of refraction, or how the scattering varies with relative humidity. Van de Hulst demonstrated that the scattering efficiency (the scattering cross section divided by the geometric cross section) of a non-absorbing sphere, over a wide range of particle sizes of atmospheric importance, depends not on x and m separately, but on the quantity 2x(m-1); this is the basis for the anomalous diffraction approximation. Here an analytic approximation for the scattering efficiency of a non-absorbing spherical particle is presented in terms of this new quantity that is accurate over a wide range of particle sizes of atmospheric importance and which readily displays the dependences of the scattering efficiency on particle radius, index of refraction, and wavelength. For an aerosol for which the particle size distribution is parameterized as a gamma function, this approximation also yields analytical results for the scattering coefficient and for the Ångström exponent, with the dependences of scattering properties on wavelength and index of refraction clearly displayed. This approximation provides insight into the dependence of light scattering properties on factors such as relative humidity, readily enables conversion of scattering from one index of refraction to another, and demonstrates the conditions under which the aerosol index (the product of the aerosol optical depth and the Ångström exponent) is a useful proxy for the number of cloud condensation nuclei.

Measurement of the refractive index dispersion of As2Se3 bulk glass and thin films prior to and after laser irradiation and annealing using prism coupling in the near- and mid-infrared spectral range

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Carlie, Nathan; Anheier, Norman C.; Qiao, Hong

2011-05-01

The prism coupling technique has been utilized to measure the refractive index in the near- and mid-IR spectral region of chalcogenide glasses in bulk and thin film form. A commercial system (Metricon model 2010) has been modified with additional laser sources, detectors, and a new GaP prism to allow the measurement of refractive index dispersion over the 1.5–10.6 μm range. The instrumental error was found to be ±0.001 refractive index units across the entire wavelength region examined. Measurements on thermally evaporated AMTIR2 thin films confirmed that (i) the film deposition process provides thin films with reduced index compared to thatmore » of the bulk glass used as a target, (ii) annealing of the films increases the refractive index of the film to the level of the bulk glass used as a target to create it, and (iii) it is possible to locally increase the refractive index of the chalcogenide glass using laser exposure at 632.8 nm.« less

Measurement of the refractive index dispersion of As{sub 2}Se{sub 3} bulk glass and thin films prior to and after laser irradiation and annealing using prism coupling in the near- and mid-infrared spectral range

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Carlie, N.; Petit, L.; Musgraves, J. D.

2011-05-15

The prism coupling technique has been utilized to measure the refractive index in the near- and mid-IR spectral region of chalcogenide glasses in bulk and thin film form. A commercial system (Metricon model 2010) has been modified with additional laser sources, detectors, and a new GaP prism to allow the measurement of refractive index dispersion over the 1.5-10.6 {mu}m range. The instrumental error was found to be {+-}0.001 refractive index units across the entire wavelength region examined. Measurements on thermally evaporated AMTIR2 thin films confirmed that (i) the film deposition process provides thin films with reduced index compared to thatmore » of the bulk glass used as a target, (ii) annealing of the films increases the refractive index of the film to the level of the bulk glass used as a target to create it, and (iii) it is possible to locally increase the refractive index of the chalcogenide glass using laser exposure at 632.8 nm.« less

Is the nuclear refractive index lower than cytoplasm? Validation of phase measurements and implications for light scattering technologies.

PubMed

Steelman, Zachary A; Eldridge, Will J; Weintraub, Jacob B; Wax, Adam

2017-12-01

The refractive index (RI) of biological materials is a fundamental parameter for the optical characterization of living systems. Numerous light scattering technologies are grounded in a quantitative knowledge of the refractive index at cellular and subcellular scales. Recent work in quantitative phase microscopy (QPM) has called into question the widely held assumption that the index of the cell nucleus is greater than that of the cytoplasm, a result which disagrees with much of the current literature. In this work, we critically examine the measurement of the nuclear and whole-cell refractive index using QPM, validating that nuclear refractive index is lower than that of cytoplasm in four diverse cell lines and their corresponding isolated nuclei. We further examine Mie scattering and phase-wrapping as potential sources of error in these measurements, finding they have minimal impact. Finally, we use simulation to examine the effects of incorrect RI assumptions on nuclear morphology measurements using angle-resolved scattering information. Despite an erroneous assumption of the nuclear refractive index, accurate measurement of nuclear morphology was maintained, suggesting that light scattering modalities remain effective. © 2017 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Refractive index engineering of high performance coupler for compact photonic integrated circuits

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Lu; Zhou, Zhiping

2017-04-01

High performance couplers are highly desired in many applications, but the design is limited by nearly unchangeable material refractive index. To tackle this issue, refractive index engineering method is investigated, which can be realized by subwavelength grating. Subwavelength gratings are periodical structures with pitches small enough to locally synthesize the refractive index of photonic waveguides, which allows direct control of optical profile as well as easier fabrication process. This review provides an introduction to the basics of subwavelength structures and pay special attention to the design strategies of some representative examples of subwavelength grating devices, including: edge couplers, fiber-chip grating couplers, directional couplers and multimode interference couplers. Benefited from the subwavelength grating which can engineer the refractive index as well as birefringence and dispersion, these devices show better performance when compared to their conventional counterparts.

Improve the refractive index sensitivity of coaxial-cable type gold nanostructure: the effect of dielectric polarization from the separate layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Jian; Li, Jian-Jun; Zhao, Jun-Wu

2013-06-01

The separate layer refractive index sensitivity of a coaxial-cable type three-layered gold nanotube has been studied. Theoretical calculation results based on quasi-static model show that the coaxial-cable type gold nanostructure has higher refractive index sensitivity than that of single-layered gold nanotube. This sensitivity could be improved by increasing the inner wire radius or decreasing the total radius of the tube, and the maximum sensitivity may exceed 1,000 nm per refractive index unit. The physical origin was also investigated based on the coupling of the dielectric media induced polarizations and the local electric fields in separate layer and outer surrounding. These separate layer refractive index sensing properties of coaxial-cable type gold nanostructure present well potential for plasmonic biosensing applications.

Background oriented schlieren measurement of the refractive index field of air induced by a hot, cylindrical measurement object.

PubMed

Beermann, Rüdiger; Quentin, Lorenz; Pösch, Andreas; Reithmeier, Eduard; Kästner, Markus

2017-05-10

To optically capture the topography of a hot measurement object with high precision, the light deflection by the inhomogeneous refractive index field-induced by the heat transfer from the measurement object to the ambient medium-has to be considered. We used the 2D background oriented schlieren method with illuminated wavelet background, an optical flow algorithm, and Ciddor's equation to quantify the refractive index field located directly above a red-glowing, hot measurement object. A heat transfer simulation has been implemented to verify the magnitude and the shape of the measured refractive index field. Provided that no forced external flow is disturbing the shape of the convective flow originating from the hot object, a laminar flow can be observed directly above the object, resulting in a sharply bounded, inhomogeneous refractive index field.

Miniature interferometer for refractive index measurement in microfluidic chip

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Minghui; Geiser, Martial; Truffer, Frederic; Song, Chengli

2012-12-01

The design and development of the miniaturized interferometer for measurement of the refractive index or concentration of sub-microliter volume aqueous solution in microfludic chip is presented. It is manifested by a successful measurement of the refractive index of sugar-water solution, by utilizing a laser diode for light source and the small robust instrumentation for practical implementation. Theoretically, the measurement principle and the feasibility of the system are analyzed. Experimental device is constructed with a diode laser, lens, two optical plate and a complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS). Through measuring the positional changes of the interference fringes, the refractive index change are retrieved. A refractive index change of 10-4 is inferred from the measured image data. The entire system is approximately the size of half and a deck of cards and can operate on battery power for long time.

Photoacoustic measurement of refractive index of dye solutions and myoglobin for biosensing applications

PubMed Central

Goldschmidt, Benjamin S.; Mehta, Smit; Mosley, Jeff; Walter, Chris; Whiteside, Paul J. D.; Hunt, Heather K.; Viator, John A.

2013-01-01

Current methods of determining the refractive index of chemicals and materials, such as ellipsometry and reflectometry, are limited by their inability to analyze highly absorbing or highly transparent materials, as well as the required prior knowledge of the sample thickness and estimated refractive index. Here, we present a method of determining the refractive index of solutions using the photoacoustic effect. We show that a photoacoustic refractometer can analyze highly absorbing dye samples to within 0.006 refractive index units of a handheld optical refractometer. Further, we use myoglobin, an early non-invasive biomarker for malignant hyperthermia, as a proof of concept that this technique is applicable for use as a medical diagnostic. Comparison of the speed, cost, simplicity, and accuracy of the techniques shows that this photoacoustic method is well-suited for optically complex systems. PMID:24298407

Spectral Density of Laser Beam Scintillation in Wind Turbulence. Part 1; Theory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Balakrishnan, A. V.

1997-01-01

The temporal spectral density of the log-amplitude scintillation of a laser beam wave due to a spatially dependent vector-valued crosswind (deterministic as well as random) is evaluated. The path weighting functions for normalized spectral moments are derived, and offer a potential new technique for estimating the wind velocity profile. The Tatarskii-Klyatskin stochastic propagation equation for the Markov turbulence model is used with the solution approximated by the Rytov method. The Taylor 'frozen-in' hypothesis is assumed for the dependence of the refractive index on the wind velocity, and the Kolmogorov spectral density is used for the refractive index field.

New photosensitive systems for volume phase holography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bianco, Andrea; Colella, Letizia; Galli, Paola; Zanutta, Alessio; Bertarelli, Chiara

2017-05-01

Volume phase holographic elements are becoming attractive thanks to the large efficiency and good optical quality. They are based on photosensitive materials where a modulation of the refractive index is induced. In this paper, we highlight the strategies to obtain a change in the refractive index in a dielectric material, namely a change in the material density and/or in the molecular polarizability. Moreover, we show the results achieved for materials that undergo the photo-Fries reaction as function of the molecular structure and the illumination conditions. We also report the results on a system based on the diazo Meldrum's acid where volatile molecules are produced upon light exposure.

Physically based reflectance model utilizing polarization measurement.

PubMed

Nakano, Takayuki; Tamagawa, Yasuhisa

2005-05-20

A surface bidirectional reflectance distribution function (BRDF) depends on both the optical properties of the material and the microstructure of the surface and appears as combination of these factors. We propose a method for modeling the BRDF based on a separate optical-property (refractive-index) estimation by polarization measurement. Because the BRDF and the refractive index for precisely the same place can be determined, errors cased by individual difference or spatial dependence can be eliminated. Our BRDF model treats the surface as an aggregation of microfacets, and the diffractive effect is negligible because of randomness. An example model of a painted aluminum plate is presented.

Simultaneous detection of refractive index and surface charges in nanolaser biosensors

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Watanabe, Keisuke; Kishi, Yoji; Hachuda, Shoji

2015-01-12

The emission intensity of a GaInAsP photonic crystal nanolaser is affected by the pH of the solution, in which the nanolaser is immersed. This phenomenon can be explained by the change in the redox potential, which modifies the filling of electrons at surface states of the semiconductor and hence the nonradiative surface recombination. This phenomenon allows the nanolaser to simultaneously and independently detect the refractive index and electric charges near the surface on the basis of the variation in emission wavelength and intensity, respectively. This paper demonstrates this function through alternate deposition of charged polyelectrolytes and hybridization of deoxyribonucleic acids.

Frequency modulation and compression of optical pulses in an optical fibre with a travelling refractive-index wave

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zolotovskii, I O; Lapin, V A; Sementsov, D I

2016-01-31

We have studied the conditions for spectral broadening, frequency modulation and compression (both temporal and spectral) of Gaussian pulses propagating in a fibre with a travelling refractive-index wave. Analytical expressions have been derived for the dependences of pulse duration, chirp and spectral width on the distance travelled through the fibre, parameters of the fibre and radiation launched into it. Based on the numerical analysis we have studied the behaviour of these characteristics by changing the coefficient of the refractive-index modulation and other parameters of the travelling refractive-index wave. (nonlinear optical phenomena)

Refractive index sensor based on combination of tilted fiber Bragg grating and waist-enlarged fusion bitaper

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Xiaohang; Zheng, Jie; Yang, Jingyi; Li, Yi; Dong, Xinyong

2015-12-01

Refractive index measurement by using the combination of a tilted fiber Bragg grating (TFBG) and a waist-enlarged fusion bitaper (WEFBT) is proposed and demonstrated. The both devices can couple light between core and cladding modes with coupling coefficients depending on ambient refractive index. It is found that the proposed refractive index sensor offers two measurement ranges respectively from 1.333 to 1.428 and from 1.383 to 1.453 when different sensing segment is used, in addition to advantages of reflection operation mode and intensity-modulated measurement.

Refractive index modulation in polymer film doped with diazo Meldrum's acid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zanutta, Alessio; Villa, Filippo; Bertarelli, Chiara; Bianco, Andrea

2016-08-01

Diazo Meldrum's acid undergoes a photoreaction induced by UV light and it is used as photosensitizer in photoresists. Upon photoreaction, a change in refractive index occurs, which makes this system interesting for volume holography. We report on the sublimation effect at room temperature and the effect of photoirradiation on the refractive index in thin films of CAB (Cellulose acetate butyrate) doped with different amount of diazo Meldrum's acid. A net modulation of the refractive index of 0.01 is achieved with 40% of doping ratio together with a reduction of the film thickness.

Analyzing refractive index changes and differential bending in microcantilever arrays.

PubMed

Huber, François; Lang, Hans Peter; Hegner, Martin; Despont, Michel; Drechsler, Ute; Gerber, Christoph

2008-08-01

A new microcantilever array design is investigated comprising eight flexible microcantilevers introducing two solid bars, enabling to subtract contributions from differences in refractive index in an optical laser read out system. Changes in the refractive index do not contribute undesirably to bending signals at picomolar to micromolar DNA or protein concentrations. However, measurements of samples with high salt concentrations or serum are affected, requiring corrections for refractive index artifacts. Moreover, to obtain a deeper understanding of molecular stress formation, the differential curvature of cantilevers is analyzed by positioning the laser spots along the surface of the levers during pH experiments.

Theoretical study of polarization dependence of carrier-induced refractive index change of quantum dot.

PubMed

Miao, Qingyuan; Yang, Ziyi; Dong, Jianji; He, Ping-An; Huang, Dexiu

2018-02-05

The influences of dot material component, barrier material component, aspect ratio and carrier density on the refractive index changes of TE mode and TM mode of columnar quantum dot are analyzed, and a multiparameter adjustment method is proposed to realize low polarization dependence of refractive index change. Then the quantum dots with low polarization dependence of refractive index change (<1.5%) within C-band (1530 nm - 1565 nm) are designed, and it shows that quantum dots with different material parameters are anticipated to have similar characteristics of low polarization dependence.

Refractive index measurement of the mouse crystalline lens using optical coherence tomography

PubMed Central

Chakraborty, Ranjay; Lacy, Kip D.; Tan, Christopher C.; Park, Han na; Pardue, Machelle T.

2014-01-01

In recent years, there has been a growing interest for using mouse models in refractive development and myopia research. The crystalline lens is a critical optical component of the mouse eye that occupies greater than 50% of the ocular space, and significant increases in thickness with age. However, changes in refractive index of the mouse crystalline lens are less known. In this study, we examined the changes in thickness and refractive index of the mouse crystalline lens for two different strains, wild-type (WT) and a nyx mutant (nob) over the course of normal visual development or after form deprivation. Refractive index and lens thickness measurements were made on ex vivo lens using spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). Comparison of refractive index measurements on 5 standard ball lenses using the SD-OCT and their known refractive indices (manufacturer provided) indicated good precision (intra-class correlation coefficient, 0.998 and Bland-Altman coefficient of repeatability, 0.116) of the SD-OCT to calculate mouse lens refractive index ex vivo. During normal visual development, lens thickness increased significantly with age for three different cohorts of mice, aged 4 (average thickness from both eyes; WT: 1.78 ± 0.03, nob: 1.79 ± 0.08 mm), 10 (WT: 2.02 ± 0.05, nob: 2.01 ± 0.04 mm) and 16 weeks (WT: 2.12 ± 0.06, nob: 2.09 ± 0.06 mm, p<0.001). Lens thickness was not significantly different between the two strains at any age (p=0.557). For mice with normal vision, refractive index for isolated crystalline lenses in nob mice was significantly greater than WT mice (mean for all ages; WT: 1.42 ± 0.01, nob: 1.44 ± 0.001, p<0.001). After 4 weeks of form deprivation to the right eye using a skull-mounted goggling apparatus, a thinning of the crystalline lens was observed in both right and left eyes of goggled animals compared to their naïve controls (average from both the right and the left eye) for both strains (p=0.052). In form deprived mice, lens refractive index was significantly different between the goggled animals and non-goggled naïve controls in nob mice, but not in WT mice (p=0.009). Both eyes of goggled nob mice had significantly greater lens refractive index (goggled, 1.49 ± 0.01; opposite, 1.47 ± 0.03) compared to their naïve controls (1.45 ± 0.02, p<0.05). The results presented here suggest that there are genetic differences in the crystalline lens refractive index of the mouse eye, and that the lens refractive index in mice significantly increase with form deprivation. Research applications requiring precise optical measurements of the mouse eye should take these lens refractive indices into account when interpreting SD-OCT data. PMID:24939747

Evaluation of a quantitative structure-property relationship (QSPR) for predicting mid-visible refractive index of secondary organic aerosol (SOA).

PubMed

Redmond, Haley; Thompson, Jonathan E

2011-04-21

In this work we describe and evaluate a simple scheme by which the refractive index (λ = 589 nm) of non-absorbing components common to secondary organic aerosols (SOA) may be predicted from molecular formula and density (g cm(-3)). The QSPR approach described is based on three parameters linked to refractive index-molecular polarizability, the ratio of mass density to molecular weight, and degree of unsaturation. After computing these quantities for a training set of 111 compounds common to atmospheric aerosols, multi-linear regression analysis was conducted to establish a quantitative relationship between the parameters and accepted value of refractive index. The resulting quantitative relationship can often estimate refractive index to ±0.01 when averaged across a variety of compound classes. A notable exception is for alcohols for which the model consistently underestimates refractive index. Homogenous internal mixtures can conceivably be addressed through use of either the volume or mole fraction mixing rules commonly used in the aerosol community. Predicted refractive indices reconstructed from chemical composition data presented in the literature generally agree with previous reports of SOA refractive index. Additionally, the predicted refractive indices lie near measured values we report for λ = 532 nm for SOA generated from vapors of α-pinene (R.I. 1.49-1.51) and toluene (R.I. 1.49-1.50). We envision the QSPR method may find use in reconstructing optical scattering of organic aerosols if mass composition data is known. Alternatively, the method described could be incorporated into in models of organic aerosol formation/phase partitioning to better constrain organic aerosol optical properties.

Determining the unique refractive index properties of solid polystyrene aerosol using broadband Mie scattering from optically trapped beads.

PubMed

Jones, Stephanie H; King, Martin D; Ward, Andrew D

2013-12-21

A method is described to measure the refractive index dispersion with wavelength of optically trapped solid particles in air. Knowledge of the refraction properties of solid particles is critical for the study of aerosol; both in the laboratory and in the atmosphere for climate studies. Single micron-sized polystyrene beads were optically trapped in air using a vertically aligned counter-propagating configuration of focussed laser beams. Each bead was illuminated using white light from a broadband light emitting diode (LED) and elastic scattering within the bead was collected onto a spectrograph. The resulting Mie spectra were analysed to accurately determine polystyrene bead radii to ±0.4 nm and values of the refractive index to ±0.0005 over a wavelength range of 480-700 nm. We demonstrate that optical trapping combined with elastic scattering can be used to both accurately size polystyrene beads suspended in air and determine their wavelength dependent refractive index. The refractive index dispersions are in close agreement with reported values for polystyrene beads in aqueous dispersion. Our results also demonstrate a variation in the refractive index of polystyrene, from bead to bead, in a commercial sample. The measured variation highlights that care must be taken when using polystyrene beads as a calibration aerosol.

Nonintrusive measurement of the liquid refractive index by using properties of the cuvette wall.

PubMed

Xu, Ming; Ren, Junpeng; Miao, Runcai; Zhang, Zongquan

2016-10-01

We present a method of nonintrusive measurement of the refractive index of a liquid in a glass cuvette, which uses some optical properties of the cuvette wall and the principle of total internal reflection. By coating a transmission-scattering paint layer on the outer surface of the cuvette, we transform an incident laser beam into a transmitted scattered light. When the transmitted scattered light reaches the interface between the container wall and the liquid inside, the light beams satisfying the condition of total internal reflection are reflected to the coating layer, automatically forming a circular dark pattern that is related to the refractive index of the liquid. Based on an analytic relation between the diameter of the circular dark pattern and the refractive index of the liquid, we devised a method of in situ nonintrusive refractive index measurement. We tested the effect of several parameters on the measuring accuracy and found that the optimal thickness of the transmission-scattering layer is in the range of 50-70 μm, and the aperture of the diaphragm should be in the range of 0.7-1.0 mm. We measured the refractive indices of ethanol, Coca Cola, and red wine, and achieved an accuracy of ±3×10^-4  RIU (refractive index unit).

Visible to near-infrared refractive properties of freshly-excised human-liver tissues: marking hepatic malignancies

PubMed Central

Giannios, Panagiotis; Toutouzas, Konstantinos G.; Matiatou, Maria; Stasinos, Konstantinos; Konstadoulakis, Manousos M.; Zografos, George C.; Moutzouris, Konstantinos

2016-01-01

The refractive index is an optical constant that plays a significant role in the description of light-matter interactions. When it comes to biological media, refraction is understudied despite recent advances in the field of bio-optics. In the present article, we report on the measurement of the refractive properties of freshly excised healthy and cancerous human liver samples, by use of a prism-coupling technique covering the visible and near-infrared spectral range. Novel data on the wavelength-dependent complex refractive index of human liver tissues are presented. The magnitude of the real and imaginary part of the refractive index is correlated with hepatic pathology. Notably, the real index contrast is pointed out as a marker of discrimination between normal liver tissue and hepatic metastases. In view of the current progress in optical biosensor technologies, our findings may be exploited for the development of novel surgical and endoscopic tools. PMID:27297034

Comparison of Methods for Predicting the Compositional Dependence of the Density and Refractive Index of Organic-Aqueous Aerosols.

PubMed

Cai, Chen; Miles, Rachael E H; Cotterell, Michael I; Marsh, Aleksandra; Rovelli, Grazia; Rickards, Andrew M J; Zhang, Yun-Hong; Reid, Jonathan P

2016-08-25

Representing the physicochemical properties of aerosol particles of complex composition is of crucial importance for understanding and predicting aerosol thermodynamic, kinetic, and optical properties and processes and for interpreting and comparing analysis methods. Here, we consider the representations of the density and refractive index of aqueous-organic aerosol with a particular focus on the dependence of these properties on relative humidity and water content, including an examination of the properties of solution aerosol droplets existing at supersaturated solute concentrations. Using bulk phase measurements of density and refractive index for typical organic aerosol components, we provide robust approaches for the estimation of these properties for aerosol at any intermediate composition between pure water and pure solute. Approximately 70 compounds are considered, including mono-, di- and tricarboxylic acids, alcohols, diols, nitriles, sulfoxides, amides, ethers, sugars, amino acids, aminium sulfates, and polyols. We conclude that the molar refraction mixing rule should be used to predict the refractive index of the solution using a density treatment that assumes ideal mixing or, preferably, a polynomial dependence on the square root of the mass fraction of solute, depending on the solubility limit of the organic component. Although the uncertainties in the density and refractive index predictions depend on the range of subsaturated compositional data available for each compound, typical errors for estimating the solution density and refractive index are less than ±0.1% and ±0.05%, respectively. Owing to the direct connection between molar refraction and the molecular polarizability, along with the availability of group contribution models for predicting molecular polarizability for organic species, our rigorous testing of the molar refraction mixing rule provides a route to predicting refractive indices for aqueous solutions containing organic molecules of arbitrary structure.

Modulation of polymer refractive indices with diamond nanoparticles for metal-free multilayer film mirrors.

PubMed

Ogata, Tomonari; Yagi, Ryohei; Nakamura, Nozomi; Kuwahara, Yutaka; Kurihara, Seiji

2012-08-01

Modulation of the refractive index of a polymer was achieved by combining it with diamond nanoparticles (NDs). The increase in the refractive index was controlled by the amount of NDs added, according to the Lorentz-Lorenz equation. The refractive index of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), which was used as the base polymer, increased from 1.52 to 1.88. A multilayer film consisting of alternating layers of ND-PVA composite and poly(methyl methacrylate) exhibited ca. 80% reflectance with 10 bilayers.

A FORTRAN Program for Computing Refractive Index Using the Double Variation Method.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Blanchard, Frank N.

1984-01-01

Describes a computer program which calculates a best estimate of refractive index and dispersion from a large number of observations using the double variation method of measuring refractive index along with Sellmeier constants of the immersion oils. Program listing with examples will be provided on written request to the author. (Author/JM)

Device for detecting the specific gravity of a liquid. [Patent application

DOEpatents

Derouin, C.R.; Kerwin, W.J.; McCormick, J.B.; Bobbett, R.E.

1980-11-18

A device for detecting the specific gravity of a liquid and a device for detecting the state of charge of a liquid phase electrolyte battery are described. In one embodiment of the present invention, a change in the critical angle of total internal reflection is utilized to determine the index of refraction of the liquid to be measured. It is shown that the index of refraction of the liquid is a function of the specific gravity of the liquid. In applications for measuring the state of charge of a battery, the specific gravity is proportional to the state of charge of the battery. A change in intensity of rays intersecting an interface surface indicates the critical angle which is a direct indication of the specific gravity of the liquid and the state of charge of a battery. In another embodiment, a light beam is projected through a transparent medium and then through a portion of the liquid to be measured. A change in refraction due to a change in the index of refraction of the liquid produces a deflection of the beam which is measured by a detector. The magnitude of deflection of the beam is directly proportional to the specific gravity of the liquid and the state of charge of a battery.

Full extraction methods to retrieve effective refractive index and parameters of a bianisotropic metamaterial based on material dispersion models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hsieh, Feng-Ju; Wang, Wei-Chih

2012-09-01

This paper discusses two improved methods in retrieving effective refractive indices, impedances, and material properties, such as permittivity (ɛ) and permeability (μ), of metamaterials. The first method modified from Kong's retrieval method allows effective constitutive parameters over all frequencies including the anti-resonant band, where imaginary parts of ɛ or μ are negative, to be solved. The second method is based on genetic algorithms and optimization of properly defined goal functions to retrieve parameters of the Drude and Lorentz dispersion models. Equations of effective refractive index and impedance at any reference planes are derived. Split ring resonator-rod based metamaterials operating in terahertz frequencies are designed and investigated with proposed methods. Retrieved material properties and parameters are used to regenerate S-parameters and compared with simulation results generated by cst microwave studio software.

Optical sensors based on photonic crystal: a new route

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Romano, S.; Torino, S.; Coppola, G.; Cabrini, S.; Mocella, V.

2017-05-01

The realization of miniaturized devices able to accumulate a higher number of information in a smallest volume is a challenge of the technological development. This trend increases the request of high sensitivity and selectivity sensors which can be integrated in microsystems. In this landscape, optical sensors based on photonic crystal technology can be an appealing solution. Here, a new refractive index sensor device, based on the bound states in the continuum (BIC) resonance shift excited in a photonic crystal membrane, is presented. A microfluidic cell was used to control the injection of fluids with different refractive indices over the photonic crystal surface. The shift of very high Q-factor resonances excited into the photonic crystal open cavity was monitored as a function of the refractive index n of the test liquid. The excellent stability we found and the minimal, loss-free optical equipment requirement, provide a new route for achieving high performance in sensing applications.

Determination of the refractive index of insoluble organic extracts from atmospheric aerosol over the visible wavelength range using optical tweezers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shepherd, Rosalie H.; King, Martin D.; Marks, Amelia A.; Brough, Neil; Ward, Andrew D.

2018-04-01

Optical trapping combined with Mie spectroscopy is a new technique used to record the refractive index of insoluble organic material extracted from atmospheric aerosol samples over a wide wavelength range. The refractive index of the insoluble organic extracts was shown to follow a Cauchy equation between 460 and 700 nm for organic aerosol extracts collected from urban (London) and remote (Antarctica) locations. Cauchy coefficients for the remote sample were for the Austral summer and gave the Cauchy coefficients of A = 1.467 and B = 1000 nm2 with a real refractive index of 1.489 at a wavelength of 589 nm. Cauchy coefficients for the urban samples varied with season, with extracts collected during summer having Cauchy coefficients of A = 1.465 ± 0.005 and B = 4625 ± 1200 nm2 with a representative real refractive index of 1.478 at a wavelength of 589 nm, whilst samples extracted during autumn had larger Cauchy coefficients of A = 1.505 and B = 600 nm2 with a representative real refractive index of 1.522 at a wavelength of 589 nm. The refractive index of absorbing aerosol was also recorded. The absorption Ångström exponent was determined for woodsmoke and humic acid aerosol extract. Typical values of the Cauchy coefficient for the woodsmoke aerosol extract were A = 1.541 ± 0.03 and B = 14 800 ± 2900 nm2, resulting in a real refractive index of 1.584 ± 0.007 at a wavelength of 589 nm and an absorption Ångström exponent of 8.0. The measured values of refractive index compare well with previous monochromatic or very small wavelength range measurements of refractive index. In general, the real component of the refractive index increases from remote to urban to woodsmoke. A one-dimensional radiative-transfer calculation of the top-of-the-atmosphere albedo was applied to model an atmosphere containing a 3 km thick layer of aerosol comprising pure water, pure insoluble organic aerosol, or an aerosol consisting of an aqueous core with an insoluble organic shell. The calculation demonstrated that the top-of-the-atmosphere albedo increases by 0.01 to 0.04 for pure organic particles relative to water particles of the same size and that the top-of-the-atmosphere albedo increases by 0.03 for aqueous core-shell particles as volume fraction of the shell material increases to 25 %.

Negative refraction in molybdenum disulfide.

PubMed

Wang, Wenhui; Cui, Xudong; Yang, Erchan; Fan, Quanping; Xiang, Bin

2015-08-24

Recently, negative refractions have been demonstrated in uniaxial crystals with no necessary of negative permittivity and permeability. However, the small anisotropy parameterγin the uniaxial crystals limits the negative refraction occurrence only in a small range of the incident light angle, retarding its practical applications. In this paper, we report negative refraction induced by a pronounced anisotropic behavior in the bulk MoS(2). Using the first-principles, the dielectric function and refractive index calculations confirm a uniaxial trait of MoS(2) with a calculated anisotropy parameterγlarger than 2.5 in the entire range of visible wavelength. The critical incident angle to trigger a negative refraction in the bulk MoS(2) is calculated up to 90°. The finite-difference time-domain simulations prove that the incident light with a density of 59.5% can be negatively refracted in a MoS(2) slab with a thickness of 0.1 µm. Our results open up a new pathway for MoS(2)-like materials to a novel field of optical integration.

A Simple Method to Determine the Refractive Index of Glass.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mak, Se-yuen

1988-01-01

Describes an experiment for determining the refractive index. Discusses the experiment procedure and mathematical expression for calculating the index. Provides two geometrical diagrams and a graph for determining the index with a typical data. (YP)

High Accuracy, Absolute, Cryogenic Refractive Index Measurements of Infrared Lens Materials for JWST NIRCam using CHARMS

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leviton, Douglas; Frey, Bradley

2005-01-01

The current refractive optical design of the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) Near Infrared Camera (NIRCam) uses three infrared materials in its lenses: LiF, BaF2, and ZnSe. In order to provide the instrument s optical designers with accurate, heretofore unavailable data for absolute refractive index based on actual cryogenic measurements, two prismatic samples of each material were measured using the cryogenic, high accuracy, refraction measuring system (CHARMS) at NASA GSFC, densely covering the temperature range from 15 to 320 K and wavelength range from 0.4 to 5.6 microns. Measurement methods are discussed and graphical and tabulated data for absolute refractive index, dispersion, and thermo-optic coefficient for these three materials are presented along with estimates of uncertainty. Coefficients for second order polynomial fits of measured index to temperature are provided for many wavelengths to allow accurate interpolation of index to other wavelengths and temperatures.

Prediction and observation of tin and silver plasmas with index of refraction greater than one in the soft x-ray range.

PubMed

Filevich, Jorge; Grava, Jonathan; Purvis, Mike; Marconi, Mario C; Rocca, Jorge J; Nilsen, Joseph; Dunn, James; Johnson, Walter R

2006-07-01

We present the calculated prediction and the experimental confirmation that doubly ionized Ag and Sn plasmas can have an index of refraction greater than one for soft x-ray wavelengths. Interferometry experiments conducted using a capillary discharge soft x-ray laser operating at a wavelength of confirm that in few times ionized laser-created plasmas of these elements the anomalous dispersion from bound electrons can dominate the free electron contribution, making the index of refraction greater than one. The results confirm that bound electrons can strongly influence the index of refraction of numerous plasmas over a broad range of soft x-ray wavelengths confirming recent observations. The understanding of index of refraction at short wavelengths will become even more essential during the next decade as x-ray free electron lasers will become available to probe a wider variety of plasmas at higher densities and shorter wavelengths.

The refractive index in electron microscopy and the errors of its approximations.

PubMed

Lentzen, M

2017-05-01

In numerical calculations for electron diffraction often a simplified form of the electron-optical refractive index, linear in the electric potential, is used. In recent years improved calculation schemes have been proposed, aiming at higher accuracy by including higher-order terms of the electric potential. These schemes start from the relativistically corrected Schrödinger equation, and use a second simplified form, now for the refractive index squared, being linear in the electric potential. The second and higher-order corrections thus determined have, however, a large error, compared to those derived from the relativistically correct refractive index. The impact of the two simplifications on electron diffraction calculations is assessed through numerical comparison of the refractive index at high-angle Coulomb scattering and of cross-sections for a wide range of scattering angles, kinetic energies, and atomic numbers. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Manipulating Refractive Index in Organic Light-Emitting Diodes.

PubMed

Salehi, Amin; Chen, Ying; Fu, Xiangyu; Peng, Cheng; So, Franky

2018-03-21

In a conventional organic light-emitting diode (OLED), only a fraction of light can escape to the glass substrate and air. Most radiation is lost to two major channels: waveguide modes and surface plasmon polaritons. It is known that reducing the refractive indices of the constituent layers in an OLED can enhance light extraction. Among all of the layers, the refractive index of the electron transport layer (ETL) has the largest impact on light extraction because it is the layer adjacent to the metallic cathode. Oblique angle deposition (OAD) provides a way to manipulate the refractive index of a thin film by creating an ordered columnar void structure. In this work, using OAD, the refractive index of tris(8-hydroxyquinoline)aluminum (Alq3) can be tuned from 1.75 to 1.45. With this low-index ETL deposited by OAD, the resulting phosphorescent OLED shows nearly 30% increase in light extraction efficiency.

New method to determine the refractive index and the absorption coefficient of organic nonlinear crystals in the ultra-wideband THz region.

PubMed

Ohno, Seigo; Miyamoto, Katsuhiko; Minamide, Hiroaki; Ito, Hiromasa

2010-08-02

A method for simultaneously measuring the refractive index and absorption coefficient of nonlinear optical crystals in the ultra-wideband terahertz (THz) region is described. This method is based on the analysis of a collinear difference frequency generation (DFG) process using a tunable, dual-wavelength, optical parametric oscillator. The refractive index and the absorption coefficient in the organic nonlinear crystal DAST were experimentally determined in the frequency range 2.5-26.2 THz by measuring the THz-wave output using DFG. The resultant refractive index in the x-direction was approximately 2.3, while the absorption spectrum was in good agreement with FT-IR measurements. The output of the DAST-DFG THz-wave source was optimized to the phase-matching condition using the measured refractive index spectrum in THz region, which resulted in an improvement in the output power of up to a factor of nine.

A Refractive Index Sensor Based on the Resonant Coupling to Cladding Modes in a Fiber Loop

PubMed Central

Reyes, Mauricio; Monzón-Hernández, David; Martínez-Ríos, Alejandro; Silvestre, Enrique; Díez, Antonio; Cruz, José Luis; Andrés, Miguel V.

2013-01-01

We report an easy-to-build, compact, and low-cost optical fiber refractive index sensor. It consists of a single fiber loop whose transmission spectra exhibit a series of notches produced by the resonant coupling between the fundamental mode and the cladding modes in a uniformly bent fiber. The wavelength of the notches, distributed in a wavelength span from 1,400 to 1,700 nm, can be tuned by adjusting the diameter of the fiber loop and are sensitive to refractive index changes of the external medium. Sensitivities of 170 and 800 nm per refractive index unit for water solutions and for the refractive index interval 1.40–1.442, respectively, are demonstrated. We estimate a long range resolution of 3 × 10−4 and a short range resolution of 2 × 10−5 for water solutions. PMID:23979478

Refractive index of r-cut sapphire under shock pressure range 5 to 65 GPa

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Cao, Xiuxia; Li, Jiabo; Li, Jun

2014-09-07

High-pressure refractive index of optical window materials not only can provide information on electronic polarizability and band-gap structure, but also is important for velocity correction in particle-velocity measurement with laser interferometers. In this work, the refractive index of r-cut sapphire window at 1550 nm wavelength was measured under shock pressures of 5–65 GPa. The refractive index (n) decreases linearly with increasing shock density (ρ) for shock stress above the Hugoniot elastic limit (HEL): n = 2.0485 (± 0.0197) − 0.0729 (± 0.0043)ρ, while n remains nearly a constant for elastic shocks. This behavior is attributed to the transition from elastic (below HEL) to heterogeneous plastic deformationmore » (above HEL). Based on the obtained refractive index-density relationship, polarizability of the shocked sapphire was also obtained.« less

High precision refractometry based on Fresnel diffraction from phase plates.

PubMed

Tavassoly, M Taghi; Naraghi, Roxana Rezvani; Nahal, Arashmid; Hassani, Khosrow

2012-05-01

When a transparent plane-parallel plate is illuminated at a boundary region by a monochromatic parallel beam of light, Fresnel diffraction occurs because of the abrupt change in phase imposed by the finite change in refractive index at the plate boundary. The visibility of the diffraction fringes varies periodically with changes in incident angle. The visibility period depends on the plate thickness and the refractive indices of the plate and the surrounding medium. Plotting the phase change versus incident angle or counting the visibility repetition in an incident-angle interval provides, for a given plate thickness, the refractive index of the plate very accurately. It is shown here that the refractive index of a plate can be determined without knowing the plate thickness. Therefore, the technique can be utilized for measuring plate thickness with high precision. In addition, by installing a plate with known refractive index in a rectangular cell filled with a liquid and following the described procedures, the refractive index of the liquid is obtained. The technique is applied to measure the refractive indices of a glass slide, distilled water, and ethanol. The potential and merits of the technique are also discussed.

Measuring the Index of Refraction.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Phelps, F. M., III; Jacobson, B. S.

1980-01-01

Presents two methods for measuring the index of refraction of glass or lucite. These two methods, used in the freshman laboratory, are based on the fact that a ray of light inside a block will be refracted parallel to the surface. (HM)

Combined Theoretical and Experimental Study of Refractive Indices of Water-Acetonitrile-Salt Systems.

PubMed

An, Ni; Zhuang, Bilin; Li, Minglun; Lu, Yuyuan; Wang, Zhen-Gang

2015-08-20

We propose a simple theoretical formula for describing the refractive indices in binary liquid mixtures containing salt ions. Our theory is based on the Clausius-Mossotti equation; it gives the refractive index of the mixture in terms of the refractive indices of the pure liquids and the polarizability of the ionic species, by properly accounting for the volume change upon mixing. The theoretical predictions are tested by extensive experimental measurements of the refractive indices for water-acetonitrile-salt systems for several liquid compositions, different salt species, and a range of salt concentrations. Excellent agreement is obtained in all cases, especially at low salt concentrations, with no fitting parameters. A simplified expression of the refractive index for low salt concentration is also given, which can be the theoretical basis for determination of salt concentration using refractive index measurements.

Refractive index of plant cell walls

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gausman, H. W.; Allen, W. A.; Escobar, D. E.

1974-01-01

Air was replaced with media of higher refractive indices by vacuum infiltration in leaves of cucumber, blackeye pea, tomato, and string bean plants, and reflectance of noninfiltrated and infiltrated leaves was spectrophotometrically measured. Infiltrated leaves reflected less light than noninfiltrated leaves over the 500-2500-nm wavelength interval because cell wall-air interfaces were partly eliminated. Minimal reflectance should occur when the average refractive index of plant cell walls was matched by the infiltrating fluid. Although refractive indices that resulted in minimal reflectance differed among the four plant genera, an average value of 1.425 approximates the refractive index of plant cell walls for the four plant genera.

Correlation between visual function and refractive, topographic, pachymetric and aberrometric data in eyes with keratoconus

PubMed Central

Bayraktar Bilen, Neslihan; Hepsen, Ibrahim F.; Arce, Carlos G.

2016-01-01

AIM To analyze the relationship between two visual functions and refractive, topographic, pachymetric and aberrometric indicators in eyes with keratoconus. METHODS Corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), and letter contrast sensitivity (CS) were correlated with refraction, corneal topography, pachymetry, and total corneal wavefront data prospectively in 71 eyes with keratoconus. The topographic indices assessed were simulated keratometry for the flattest and steepest meridians (SimK1 and SimK2), posterior steeper K (Ks), elevation value in best-fit sphere (BFS) maps, squared eccentricity (Є2), aspheric asymmetric index (AAI), pachymetry, thickness progression index (TPI), the amount of pachymetric decentralization (APD), and GalileiTM-keratoconus indices. RESULTS The mean CDVA (expressed as logMAR) were 0.25±0.21. The mean CS was 1.25±0.46. The spherical refraction correlated well with CDVA (r=-0.526, P<0.001). From topographic indices, SRI correlated with CS (r=-0.695), and IAI with CS (r=-0.672) (P<0.001 for all). Root mean square (RMS) was 4.3±1.81 µm, spherical aberration (SA) was -0.4±0.67 µm, vertical and horizontal coma were -2.1±1.47 and -0.4±0.72 µm. All wavefront data (except horizontal coma), AAI, Є2 and maximum BFS correlated significantly with the visual function (P≤0.001 for all). CONCLUSION In this study, CS is more affected than CDVA as a visual function. The quantity and quality of vision is significantly correlated with well-known and new topographic indices. There is not a significant correlation between visual function and pachymetric parameters. The significantly correlated indices can be used in staging keratoconus and to follow the outcome of a treatment. PMID:27588266

Optical generation of millimeter-wave pulses using a fiber Bragg grating in a fiber-optics system.

PubMed

Ye, Qing; Qu, Ronghui; Fang, Zujie

2007-04-10

A scheme is proposed to transform an optical pulse into a millimeter-wave frequency modulation pulse by using a weak fiber Bragg grating (FBG) in a fiber-optics system. The Fourier transformation method is used to obtain the required spectrum response function of the FBG for the Gaussian pulse, soliton pulse, and Lorenz shape pulse. On the condition of the first-order Born approximation of the weak fiber grating, the relation of the refractive index distribution and the spectrum response function of the FBG satisfies the Fourier transformation, and the corresponding refractive index distribution forms are obtained for single-frequency modulation and linear-frequency modulation millimeter-wave pulse generation. The performances of the designed fiber gratings are also studied by a numerical simulation method for a supershort pulse transmission.

TiO2 nanorods/PMMA copolymer-based nanocomposites: highly homogeneous linear and nonlinear optical material

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sciancalepore, C.; Cassano, T.; Curri, M. L.; Mecerreyes, D.; Valentini, A.; Agostiano, A.; Tommasi, R.; Striccoli, M.

2008-05-01

Original nanocomposites have been obtained by direct incorporation of pre-synthesized oleic acid capped TiO2 nanorods into properly functionalized poly(methyl methacrylate) copolymers, carrying carboxylic acid groups on the repeating polymer unit. The presence of carboxylic groups on the alkyl chain of the host functionalized copolymer allows an highly homogeneous dispersion of the nanorods in the organic matrix. The prepared TiO2/PMMA-co-MA nanocomposites show high optical transparency in the visible region, even at high TiO2 nanorod content, and tunable linear refractive index depending on the nanoparticle concentration. Finally measurements of nonlinear optical properties of TiO2 polymer nanocomposites demonstrate a negligible two-photon absorption and a negative value of nonlinear refractive index, highlighting the potential of the nanocomposite for efficient optical devices operating in the visible region.

Retrieval of the scattering and microphysical properties of aerosols from ground-based optical measurements including polarization. I. Method.

PubMed

Vermeulen, A; Devaux, C; Herman, M

2000-11-20

A method has been developed for retrieving the scattering and microphysical properties of atmospheric aerosol from measurements of solar transmission, aureole, and angular distribution of the scattered and polarized sky light in the solar principal plane. Numerical simulations of measurements have been used to investigate the feasibility of the method and to test the algorithm's performance. It is shown that the absorption and scattering properties of an aerosol, i.e., the single-scattering albedo, the phase function, and the polarization for single scattering of incident unpolarized light, can be obtained by use of radiative transfer calculations to correct the values of scattered radiance and polarized radiance for multiple scattering, Rayleigh scattering, and the influence of ground. The method requires only measurement of the aerosol's optical thickness and an estimate of the ground's reflectance and does not need any specific assumption about properties of the aerosol. The accuracy of the retrieved phase function and polarization of the aerosols is examined at near-infrared wavelengths (e.g., 0.870 mum). The aerosol's microphysical properties (size distribution and complex refractive index) are derived in a second step. The real part of the refractive index is a strong function of the polarization, whereas the imaginary part is strongly dependent on the sky's radiance and the retrieved single-scattering albedo. It is demonstrated that inclusion of polarization data yields the real part of the refractive index.

The Complex Refractive Index of Volcanic Ash Aerosol Retrieved From Spectral Mass Extinction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reed, Benjamin E.; Peters, Daniel M.; McPheat, Robert; Grainger, R. G.

2018-01-01

The complex refractive indices of eight volcanic ash samples, chosen to have a representative range of SiO2 contents, were retrieved from simultaneous measurements of their spectral mass extinction coefficient and size distribution. The mass extinction coefficients, at 0.33-19 μm, were measured using two optical systems: a Fourier transform spectrometer in the infrared and two diffraction grating spectrometers covering visible and ultraviolet wavelengths. The particle size distribution was measured using a scanning mobility particle sizer and an optical particle counter; values for the effective radius of ash particles measured in this study varied from 0.574 to 1.16 μm. Verification retrievals on high-purity silica aerosol demonstrated that the Rayleigh continuous distribution of ellipsoids (CDEs) scattering model significantly outperformed Mie theory in retrieving the complex refractive index, when compared to literature values. Assuming the silica particles provided a good analogue of volcanic ash, the CDE scattering model was applied to retrieve the complex refractive index of the eight ash samples. The Lorentz formulation of the complex refractive index was used within the retrievals as a convenient way to ensure consistency with the Kramers-Kronig relation. The short-wavelength limit of the electric susceptibility was constrained by using independently measured reference values of the complex refractive index of the ash samples at a visible wavelength. The retrieved values of the complex refractive indices of the ash samples showed considerable variation, highlighting the importance of using accurate refractive index data in ash cloud radiative transfer models.

Structural characterization and optical constants of CuIn3Se5 vacuum and air annealed thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Segmane, N. E. H.; Abdelkader, D.; Amara, A.; Drici, A.; Akkari, F. Chaffar; Khemiri, N.; Bououdina, M.; Kanzari, M.; Bernède, J. C.

2018-01-01

Milled powder of ordered defect compound (ODC) CuIn3Se5 phase was successfully synthesized via milling process. Thin films of CuIn3Se5 were deposited onto glass substrates at room temperature by thermal evaporation technique. The obtained layers were annealed in vacuum and air atmosphere. The structural and compositional properties of the powder were analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Powder XRD characterization, Rietveld analysis and chemical bounding confirm the tetragonal ordered defect compound phase formation with lattice constants a = 5.732 Å and c = 11.575 Å. Thin films were characterized by XRD, atomic force microscopy (AFM) and UV/Vis spectroscopy. Transmittance (T) and reflectance (R) spectra were measured in the spectral range of 300-1800 nm. The absorption coefficient α exhibits high values in the visible range and reaches a value of 105 cm-1. The band gap energy Eg of the annealed thin films is estimated to be approximately 1.75 eV. The refractive index n was estimated from transmittance data using Swanepoel's method. The refractive indices of the films as a function of wavelengths can be fitted with Cauchy dispersion equation. The oscillator energy E0, dispersion energy Ed, zero frequency refractive index n0, high frequency dielectric constant ε∞ and the carrier concentration per effective mass N/m∗ values were determined from the analysis of the experimental data using Wemple-DiDomenico and Spitzer-Fan models. We exploited the refractive index dispersion for the determination of the magneto-optical constant V, which characterizes the Faraday rotation. The nonlinear optical parameters namely nonlinear susceptibility χ(3), nonlinear refractive index and nonlinear absorption coefficient β are investigated for the first time for CuIn3Se5 material.

Influence of image charge effect on impurity-related optical absorption coefficients and refractive index changes in a spherical quantum dot

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vartanian, A. L.; Asatryan, A. L.; Vardanyan, L. A.

2017-03-01

We have investigated the influence of an image charge effect (ICE) on the energies of the ground and first few excited states of a hydrogen-like impurity in a spherical quantum dot (QD) in the presence of an external electric field. The oscillator strengths of transitions from the 1 s -like state to excited states of 2px and 2pz symmetries are calculated as the functions of the strengths of the confinement potential and the electric field. Also, we have studied the effect of image charges on linear and third-order nonlinear optical absorption coefficients and refractive index changes (RICs). The results show that image charges lead to the decrease of energies for all the hydrogen-like states, to the significant enhancement of the oscillator strengths of transitions between the impurity states, and to comparatively large blue shifts in linear, nonlinear, and total absorption coefficients and refractive index changes. Our results indicate that the total optical characteristics can be controlled by the strength of the confinement and the electric field.

Refractive index-based determination of detergent concentration and its application to the study of membrane proteins

PubMed Central

Strop, Pavel; Brunger, Axel T.

2005-01-01

The concentration of detergent in membrane protein preparations can have a critical role on protein stability, function, and the potential for crystallization. Unfortunately, dialysis or protein concentration can lead to an unknown amount of detergent in the final membrane protein preparations. Here we present a method for the determination of detergent concentration based on refractive index of the detergent solution. This method was applied to quantitate the amount of detergent remaining in solution after concentration in various concentrators. We found that the ability of the tested detergents to pass through the molecular weight cutoff membrane correlates well with detergent micelle size. Therefore, the micelle size can be used as a rough guide to estimate the retention of a given detergent in various molecular weight cutoff concentrators. The refractive index method is exceptionally informative when coupled with size exclusion chromatography and light scattering, and can be used to determine the oligomeric state of the membrane protein, the size of a protein-associated micelle, as well as the amount and size of the unbound detergent micelle. PMID:16046633

Fabrication of optical filters using multilayered porous silicon

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gaber, Noha; Khalil, Diaa; Shaarawi, Amr

2011-02-01

In this work we describe a method for fabricating optical filters using multilayered porous silicon 1D photonic structure. An electrochemical cell is constructed to control the porosity of variable layers in p-type Si wafers. Porous silicon multilayered structures are formed of λ/4 (or multiples) thin films that construct optical interference filters. By changing the anodizing current density of the cell during fabrication, different porosities can be obtained as the optical refractive index is a direct function of the layer porosity. To determine the morphology, the wavelength dependent refractive index n and absorption coefficient α, first, porous silicon free standing mono-layers have been fabricated at different conditions and characterized in the near infrared region (from 1000 to 2500nm). Large difference in refractive index (between 1.6 and 2.6) is obtained. Subsequently, multilayer structures have been fabricated and tested. Their spectral response has been measured and it shows good agreement with numerical simulations. A technique based on inserting etching breaks is adopted to ensure the depth homogeneity. The effect of differing etching/break times on the reproducibility of the filters is studied.

Refractive index-based determination of detergent concentration and its application to the study of membrane proteins.

PubMed

Strop, Pavel; Brunger, Axel T

2005-08-01

The concentration of detergent in membrane protein preparations can have a critical role on protein stability, function, and the potential for crystallization. Unfortunately, dialysis or protein concentration can lead to an unknown amount of detergent in the final membrane protein preparations. Here we present a method for the determination of detergent concentration based on refractive index of the detergent solution. This method was applied to quantitate the amount of detergent remaining in solution after concentration in various concentrators. We found that the ability of the tested detergents to pass through the molecular weight cutoff membrane correlates well with detergent micelle size. Therefore, the micelle size can be used as a rough guide to estimate the retention of a given detergent in various molecular weight cutoff concentrators. The refractive index method is exceptionally informative when coupled with size exclusion chromatography and light scattering, and can be used to determine the oligomeric state of the membrane protein, the size of a protein-associated micelle, as well as the amount and size of the unbound detergent micelle.

Silicon Nitride Antireflection Coatings for Photovoltaic Cells

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Johnson, C.; Wydeven, T.; Donohoe, K.

1984-01-01

Chemical-vapor deposition adapted to yield graded index of refraction. Silicon nitride deposited in layers, refractive index of which decreases with distance away from cell/coating interface. Changing index of refraction allows adjustment of spectral transmittance for wavelengths which cell is most effective at converting light to electric current. Average conversion efficiency of solar cells increased from 8.84 percent to 12.63 percent.

Determination of the refractive index of dehydrated cells by means of digital holographic microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Belashov, A. V.; Zhikhoreva, A. A.; Bespalov, V. G.; Vasyutinskii, O. S.; Zhilinskaya, N. T.; Novik, V. I.; Semenova, I. V.

2017-10-01

Spatial distributions of the integral refractive index in dehydrated cells of human oral cavity epithelium are obtained by means of digital holographic microscopy, and mean refractive index of the cells is determined. The statistical analysis of the data obtained is carried out, and absolute errors of the method are estimated for different experimental conditions.

Effect of Index of Refraction on Radiation Characteristics in a Heated Absorbing, Emitting, and Scattering Layer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Siegel, R.; Spuckler, C. M.

1992-01-01

The effect of the index of refraction on the temperature distribution and radiative heat flux in semitransparent materials, such as some ceramics, is investigated analytically. In the case considered here, a plane layer of a ceramic material is subjected to external radiative heating incident on each of its surfaces; the material emits, absorbs, and isotropically scatters radiation. It is shown that, for radiative equilibrium in a gray layer with diffuse interfaces, the temperature distribution and radiative heat flux for any index of refraction can be obtained in a simple manner from the results for an index of refraction of unity.

Sensitivity enhancement in optical micro-tube resonator sensors via mode coupling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ling, Tao; Guo, L. Jay

2013-07-01

A liquid filled, silica micro-tube with a low refractive index material inner-coating has been proposed and theoretically studied as a coupled micro-resonator sensor to greatly enhance biochemical sensor sensitivity. Its unique coupling phenomenon has been analyzed and utilized to boost the device's refractive index sensitivity to 967 nm/Refractive Index Unit (RIU). Through optimization of the coupling strength between the two micro-resonators, further improvement in refractive index sensitivity up to 1100 nm/RIU has been predicted. This mode coupling strategy allows us to design robust, thick-walled micro-tube sensors with ultra-high sensitivity which is useful in practical biochemical sensing applications.

Anomalous behavior of nonlinear refractive indexes of CO2 and Xe in supercritical states.

PubMed

Mareev, Evgenii; Aleshkevich, Victor; Potemkin, Fedor; Bagratashvili, Victor; Minaev, Nikita; Gordienko, Vyacheslav

2018-05-14

Direct measurement of pressure dependent nonlinear refractive index of CO 2 and Xe in subcritical and supercritical states are reported. In the vicinity of the ridge (or the Widom line), corresponding to the maximum density fluctuations, the nonlinear refractive index reaches a maximum value (up to 4.8*10 -20 m 2 /W in CO 2 and 3.5*10 -20 m 2 /W in Xe). Anomalous behavior of the nonlinear refractive index in the vicinity of a ridge is caused by the cluster formation. That corresponds to the results of our theoretical assumption based on the modified Langevin theory.

Optical fiber Fabry-Perot interferometer cavity fabricated by femtosecond laser micromachining and fusion splicing for refractive index sensing.

PubMed

Liao, C R; Hu, T Y; Wang, D N

2012-09-24

We demonstrate a fiber in-line Fabry-Perot interferometer cavity sensor for refractive index measurement. The interferometer cavity is formed by drilling a micro-hole at the cleaved fiber end facet, followed by fusion splicing. A micro-channel is inscribed by femtosecond laser micromachining to vertically cross the cavity to allow liquid to flow in. The refractive index sensitivity obtained is ~994 nm/RIU (refractive index unit). Such a device is simple in configuration, easy for fabrication and reliable in operation due to extremely low temperature cross sensitivity of ~4.8 × 10(-6) RIU/°C.

Tapered-fiber-based refractive index sensor at an air/solution interface.

PubMed

Lu, Ping; Harris, Jeremie; Wang, Xiaozhen; Lin, Ganbin; Chen, Liang; Bao, Xiaoyi

2012-10-20

An approach to achieve refractive index sensing at an air and aqueous glycerol solution interface is proposed using a tapered-fiber-based microfiber Mach-Zehnder interferometer (MFMZI). Compared to a surrounding uniform medium of air or solutions, the spectral interference visibility of the MFMZI at the air/solution interface is significantly reduced due to a weak coupling between the fundamental cladding mode and high-order asymmetric cladding modes, which are extremely sensitive to the external refractive index. The MFMZI is experimentally demonstrated as an evanescent wave refractive index sensor to measure concentrations of glycerol solutions by monitoring average power attenuation of the tapered fiber.

Development and characterization of high refractive index and high scattering acrylate polymer layers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eiselt, Thomas; Gomard, Guillaume; Preinfalk, Jan; Gleissner, Uwe; Lemmer, Uli; Hanemann, Thomas

2016-04-01

The aim is to develop a polymer layer which has the ability to diffuse light homogeneously and exhibit a high refractive index. The mixtures are containing an acrylate casting resin, benzylmethacrylate, phenanthrene and other additives. Phenanthrene is employed to increase the refractive index. The mixtures are first rheologically characterized and then polymerized with heat and UV radiation. For the refractive index measurements the polymerized samples require a planar surface without air bubbles. To produce flat samples a special construction consisting of a glass plate, a teflon sheet, a silicone ring (PDMS mold), another teflon sheet and another glass plate is developed. Glue clamps are used to fix this construction together. Selected samples have a refractive index of 1.585 at 20°C at a wavelength of 589nm. A master mixture with a high refractive index is taken for further experiments. Nano scaled titanium dioxide is added and dispersed into the master mixture and then spin coated on a glass substrate. These layers are optically characterized. The specular transmission and the overall transmission are measured to investigate the degree of scattering, which is defined as the haze. Most of the presented layers express the expected haze of over 50%.

Analysis of interferograms of refractive index inhomogeneities produced in optical materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tarjányi, N.

2014-12-01

Optical homogeneity of materials intended for optical applications is one of the criterions which decide on an appropriate application method for the material. The existence of a refractive index inhomogeneity inside a material may disqualify it from utilization or by contrary, provide an advantage. For observation of a refractive index inhomogeneity, even a weak one, it is convenient to use any of interferometric methods. They are very sensitive and provide information on spatial distribution of the refractive index, immediately. One can use them also in case when the inhomogeneity evolves in time, usually due to action of some external fields. Then, the stream of interferograms provides a dynamic evolution of a spatial distribution of the inhomogeneity. In the contribution, there are presented results of the analysis of interferograms obtained by observing the creation of a refractive index inhomogeneity due to illumination of thin layers of a polyvinyl-alcohol/acrylamide photopolymer and a plate of photorefractive crystal, lithium niobate, by light and a refractive index inhomogeneity originated at the boundary of two layers of polydimethylsiloxane. The obtained dependences can be used for studying of the mechanisms responsible for the inhomogeneity creation, designing various technical applications or for diagnostics of fabricated components.

Development and characterization of high refractive index and high scattering acrylate polymer layers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Eiselt, Thomas; Gomard, Guillaume; Preinfalk, Jan; Gleißner, Uwe; Lemmer, Uli; Hanemann, Thomas

2016-11-01

In this work, we develop a wet-processable scattering layer exhibiting a high refractive index that can be used in organic light-emitting diodes for light outcoupling purposes. The composite layers contain an acrylate casting resin, benzylmethacrylate, and phenanthrene, which is employed to increase the refractive index. The mixtures are first rheologically characterized and then polymerized with heat and UV radiation. For the refractive index measurements, the polymerized samples require a planar surface without air bubbles. To produce flat samples, a special construction consisting of a glass plate, a teflon sheet, a silicone ring (PDMS mold), another teflon sheet, and another glass plate is developed. Glue clamps are used to hold the construction together. The refractive index of the samples can be increased from 1.565 to 1.585 at 20°C at a wavelength of 589 nm following the addition of 20 wt% phenanthrene. A master mixture with a high refractive index is taken for further experiments. Nanoscaled titanium dioxide is added and dispersed into the master mixture and then spin coated on a glass substrate. These layers are optically characterized. Most of the presented layers present the expected haze of over 50%.

Quantitative reconstruction of refractive index distribution and imaging of glucose concentration by using diffusing light.

PubMed

Liang, Xiaoping; Zhang, Qizhi; Jiang, Huabei

2006-11-10

We show that a two-step reconstruction method can be adapted to improve the quantitative accuracy of the refractive index reconstruction in phase-contrast diffuse optical tomography (PCDOT). We also describe the possibility of imaging tissue glucose concentration with PCDOT. In this two-step method, we first use our existing finite-element reconstruction algorithm to recover the position and shape of a target. We then use the position and size of the target as a priori information to reconstruct a single value of the refractive index within the target and background regions using a region reconstruction method. Due to the extremely low contrast available in the refractive index reconstruction, we incorporate a data normalization scheme into the two-step reconstruction to combat the associated low signal-to-noise ratio. Through a series of phantom experiments we find that this two-step reconstruction method can considerably improve the quantitative accuracy of the refractive index reconstruction. The results show that the relative error of the reconstructed refractive index is reduced from 20% to within 1.5%. We also demonstrate the possibility of PCDOT for recovering glucose concentration using these phantom experiments.

Elastic and Inelastic Light Scattering by Microdroplets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Huckaby, James Longinus

A technique for simultaneously determining microdroplet radius, refractive index and its dispersion is developed and demonstrated for three droplet compounds. Based on the accurate determination of the spectral positions of a set of scattered field optical resonances, the technique is shown to provide size and refractive index values to within a relative error of 5 times 10^{-5}, while also providing the refractive index as a function of wavenumber. A method for unambiguously distinguishing droplet growth by the formation of a layer from homogeneous growth is presented and demonstrated. This method employs the precise determination of the spectral positions of optical resonances associated with the transverse magnetic (TM) and transverse electric (TE) scattered fields from a sphere. The method relies upon the observation that the formation of a coating having a different refractive index than the core droplet results in substantially different spectral shifts of the scattered TE and TM resonances. This method was applied to examine absorption and coating events. Droplet size changes of as small as 3.0 nm due to the absorption of vapor were induced and measured. Coatings of perfluorinated polyether on polyphenol ether droplets were generated and shown to produce peak shifts consistent with theory. The observation of a large number of internal field resonances of the droplet with the incident wavenumber in the Raman spectra of microdroplets is reported. An argument based on the observed density of these internal resonances is made for the observation of all internal field resonances through the techniques described.

Retrievals of aerosol optical and microphysical properties from Imaging Polar Nephelometer scattering measurements

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reed Espinosa, W.; Remer, Lorraine A.; Dubovik, Oleg; Ziemba, Luke; Beyersdorf, Andreas; Orozco, Daniel; Schuster, Gregory; Lapyonok, Tatyana; Fuertes, David; Vanderlei Martins, J.

2017-03-01

A method for the retrieval of aerosol optical and microphysical properties from in situ light-scattering measurements is presented and the results are compared with existing measurement techniques. The Generalized Retrieval of Aerosol and Surface Properties (GRASP) is applied to airborne and laboratory measurements made by a novel polar nephelometer. This instrument, the Polarized Imaging Nephelometer (PI-Neph), is capable of making high-accuracy field measurements of phase function and degree of linear polarization, at three visible wavelengths, over a wide angular range of 3 to 177°. The resulting retrieval produces particle size distributions (PSDs) that agree, within experimental error, with measurements made by commercial optical particle counters (OPCs). Additionally, the retrieved real part of the refractive index is generally found to be within the predicted error of 0.02 from the expected values for three species of humidified salt particles, with a refractive index that is well established. The airborne measurements used in this work were made aboard the NASA DC-8 aircraft during the Studies of Emissions and Atmospheric Composition, Clouds and Climate Coupling by Regional Surveys (SEAC4RS) field campaign, and the inversion of this data represents the first aerosol retrievals of airborne polar nephelometer data. The results provide confidence in the real refractive index product, as well as in the retrieval's ability to accurately determine PSD, without assumptions about refractive index that are required by the majority of OPCs.

Lithographically-Scribed Planar Holographic Optical CDMA Devices and Systems

DTIC Science & Technology

2007-02-15

operate with quite high refractive index contrast (order 0.5). Thin -filn filter devices are viewed as relatively low in chromatic dispersion. We have...stack consists of planar interfaces between materials of refractive index n, and n,. Let An = In2 - nil and n = (n, - n1)/2. The planar interfaces are... index ). It may be desirable to have a relatively large refractive index differential when diffractive elements are formed from cladding material at a

Refractive index measurements of single, spherical cells using digital holographic microscopy.

PubMed

Schürmann, Mirjam; Scholze, Jana; Müller, Paul; Chan, Chii J; Ekpenyong, Andrew E; Chalut, Kevin J; Guck, Jochen

2015-01-01

In this chapter, we introduce digital holographic microscopy (DHM) as a marker-free method to determine the refractive index of single, spherical cells in suspension. The refractive index is a conclusive measure in a biological context. Cell conditions, such as differentiation or infection, are known to yield significant changes in the refractive index. Furthermore, the refractive index of biological tissue determines the way it interacts with light. Besides the biological relevance of this interaction in the retina, a lot of methods used in biology, including microscopy, rely on light-tissue or light-cell interactions. Hence, determining the refractive index of cells using DHM is valuable in many biological applications. This chapter covers the main topics that are important for the implementation of DHM: setup, sample preparation, and analysis. First, the optical setup is described in detail including notes and suggestions for the implementation. Following that, a protocol for the sample and measurement preparation is explained. In the analysis section, an algorithm for the determination of quantitative phase maps is described. Subsequently, all intermediate steps for the calculation of the refractive index of suspended cells are presented, exploiting their spherical shape. In the last section, a discussion of possible extensions to the setup, further measurement configurations, and additional analysis methods are given. Throughout this chapter, we describe a simple, robust, and thus easily reproducible implementation of DHM. The different possibilities for extensions show the diverse fields of application for this technique. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Uniform refraction in negative refractive index materials.

PubMed

Gutiérrez, Cristian E; Stachura, Eric

2015-11-01

We study the problem of constructing an optical surface separating two homogeneous, isotropic media, one of which has a negative refractive index. In doing so, we develop a vector form of Snell's law, which is used to study surfaces possessing a certain uniform refraction property, in both the near- and far-field cases. In the near-field problem, unlike the case when both materials have positive refractive indices, we show that the resulting surfaces can be neither convex nor concave.

Refractive index measurement of the mouse crystalline lens using optical coherence tomography.

PubMed

Chakraborty, Ranjay; Lacy, Kip D; Tan, Christopher C; Park, Han Na; Pardue, Machelle T

2014-08-01

In recent years, there has been a growing interest for using mouse models in refractive development and myopia research. The crystalline lens is a critical optical component of the mouse eye that occupies greater than 50% of the ocular space, and significant increases in thickness with age. However, changes in refractive index of the mouse crystalline lens are less known. In this study, we examined the changes in thickness and refractive index of the mouse crystalline lens for two different strains, wild-type (WT) and a nyx mutant (nob) over the course of normal visual development or after form deprivation. Refractive index and lens thickness measurements were made on ex vivo lenses using spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT). Comparison of refractive index measurements on 5 standard ball lenses using the SD-OCT and their known refractive indices (manufacturer provided) indicated good precision (intra-class correlation coefficient, 0.998 and Bland-Altman coefficient of repeatability, 0.116) of the SD-OCT to calculate mouse lens refractive index ex vivo. During normal visual development, lens thickness increased significantly with age for three different cohorts of mice, aged 4 (average thickness from both eyes; WT: 1.78 ± 0.03, nob: 1.79 ± 0.08 mm), 10 (WT: 2.02 ± 0.05, nob: 2.01 ± 0.04 mm) and 16 weeks (WT: 2.12 ± 0.06, nob: 2.09 ± 0.06 mm, p < 0.001). Lens thickness was not significantly different between the two strains at any age (p = 0.557). For mice with normal vision, refractive index for isolated crystalline lenses in nob mice was significantly greater than WT mice (mean for all ages; WT: 1.42 ± 0.01, nob: 1.44 ± 0.001, p < 0.001). After 4 weeks of form deprivation to the right eye using a skull-mounted goggling apparatus, a thinning of the crystalline lens was observed in both right and left eyes of goggled animals compared to their naïve controls (average from both the right and the left eye) for both strains (p = 0.052). In form deprived mice, lens refractive index was significantly different between the goggled animals and non-goggled naïve controls in nob mice, but not in WT mice (p = 0.009). Both eyes of goggled nob mice had significantly greater lens refractive index (goggled, 1.49 ± 0.01; opposite, 1.47 ± 0.03) compared to their naïve controls (1.45 ± 0.02, p < 0.05). The results presented here suggest that there are genetic differences in the crystalline lens refractive index of the mouse eye, and that the lens refractive index in mice significantly increase with form deprivation. Research applications requiring precise optical measurements of the mouse eye should take these lens refractive indices into account when interpreting SD-OCT data. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Retrieving the Vertical Structure of the Effective Aerosol Complex Index of Refraction from a Combination of Aerosol in Situ and Remote Sensing Measurements During TARFOX

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Redemann, J.; Turco, R. P.; Liou, K. N.; Russell, P. B.; Bergstrom, R. W.; Schmid, B.; Livingston, J. M.; Hobbs, P. V.; Hartley, W. S.; Ismail, S.

2000-01-01

The largest uncertainty in estimates of the effects of atmospheric aerosols on climate stems from uncertainties in the determination of their microphysical properties, including the aerosol complex index of refraction, which in turn determines their optical properties. A novel technique is used to estimate the aerosol complex index of refraction in distinct vertical layers from a combination of aerosol in situ size distribution and remote sensing measurements during the Tropospheric Aerosol Radiative Forcing Observational Experiment (TARFOX). In particular, aerosol backscatter measurements using the NASA Langley LASE (Lidar Atmospheric Sensing Experiment) instrument and in situ aerosol size distribution data are utilized to derive vertical profiles of the 'effective' aerosol complex index of refraction at 815 nm (i.e., the refractive index that would provide the same backscatter signal in a forward calculation on the basis of the measured in situ particle size distributions for homogeneous, spherical aerosols). A sensitivity study shows that this method yields small errors in the retrieved aerosol refractive indices, provided the errors in the lidar derived aerosol backscatter are less than 30% and random in nature. Absolute errors in the estimated aerosol refractive indices are generally less than 0.04 for the real part and can be as much as 0.042 for the imaginary part in the case of a 30% error in the lidar-derived aerosol backscatter. The measurements of aerosol optical depth from the NASA Ames Airborne Tracking Sunphotometer (AATS-6) are successfully incorporated into the new technique and help constrain the retrieved aerosol refractive indices. An application of the technique to two TARFOX case studies yields the occurrence of vertical layers of distinct aerosol refractive indices. Values of the estimated complex aerosol refractive index range from 1.33 to 1.45 for the real part and 0.001 to 0.008 for the imaginary part. The methodology devised in this study provides, for the first time a complete set of vertically resolved aerosol size distribution and refractive index data, yielding the vertical distribution of aerosol optical properties required for the determination of aersol-induced radiative flux changes

Retrieving the Vertical Structure of the Effective Aerosol Complex Index of Refraction from a Combination of Aerosol in Situ and Remote Sensing Measurements During TARFOX

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Redemann, J.; Turco, R. P.; Liou, K. N.; Russell, P. B.; Bergstrom, R. W.; Schmid, B.; Livingston, J. M.; Hobbs, P. V.; Hartley, W. S.; Ismail, S.;

Observation of acoustic Dirac-like cone and double zero refractive index

PubMed Central

Dubois, Marc; Shi, Chengzhi; Zhu, Xuefeng; Wang, Yuan; Zhang, Xiang

2017-01-01

Zero index materials where sound propagates without phase variation, holds a great potential for wavefront and dispersion engineering. Recently explored electromagnetic double zero index metamaterials consist of periodic scatterers whose refractive index is significantly larger than that of the surrounding medium. This requirement is fundamentally challenging for airborne acoustics because the sound speed (inversely proportional to the refractive index) in air is among the slowest. Here, we report the first experimental realization of an impedance matched acoustic double zero refractive index metamaterial induced by a Dirac-like cone at the Brillouin zone centre. This is achieved in a two-dimensional waveguide with periodically varying air channel that modulates the effective phase velocity of a high-order waveguide mode. Using such a zero-index medium, we demonstrated acoustic wave collimation emitted from a point source. For the first time, we experimentally confirm the existence of the Dirac-like cone at the Brillouin zone centre. PMID:28317927

Slot-waveguide biochemical sensor.

PubMed

Barrios, Carlos A; Gylfason, Kristinn B; Sánchez, Benito; Griol, Amadeu; Sohlström, H; Holgado, M; Casquel, R

2007-11-01

We report an experimental demonstration of an integrated biochemical sensor based on a slot-waveguide microring resonator. The microresonator is fabricated on a Si3N4-SiO2 platform and operates at a wavelength of 1.3 microm. The transmission spectrum of the sensor is measured with different ambient refractive indices ranging from n=1.33 to 1.42. A linear shift of the resonant wavelength with increasing ambient refractive index of 212 nm/refractive index units (RIU) is observed. The sensor detects a minimal refractive index variation of 2x10(-4) RIU.

The Predictive Power of Electronic Polarizability for Tailoring the Refractivity of High Index Glasses Optical Basicity Versus the Single Oscillator Model

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

McCloy, John S.; Riley, Brian J.; Johnson, Bradley R.

Four compositions of high density (~8 g/cm3) heavy metal oxide glasses composed of PbO, Bi2O3, and Ga2O3 were produced and refractivity parameters (refractive index and density) were computed and measured. Optical basicity was computed using three different models – average electronegativity, ionic-covalent parameter, and energy gap – and the basicity results were used to compute oxygen polarizability and subsequently refractive index. Refractive indices were measured in the visible and infrared at 0.633 μm, 1.55 μm, 3.39 μm, 5.35 μm, 9.29 μm, and 10.59 μm using a unique prism coupler setup, and data were fitted to the Sellmeier expression to obtainmore » an equation of the dispersion of refractive index with wavelength. Using this dispersion relation, single oscillator energy, dispersion energy, and lattice energy were determined. Oscillator parameters were also calculated for the various glasses from their oxide values as an additional means of predicting index. Calculated dispersion parameters from oxides underestimate the index by 3 to 4%. Predicted glass index from optical basicity, based on component oxide energy gaps, underpredicts the index at 0.633 μm by only 2%, while other basicity scales are less accurate. The predicted energy gap of the glasses based on this optical basicity overpredicts the Tauc optical gap as determined by transmission measurements by 6 to 10%. These results show that for this system, density, refractive index in the visible, and energy gap can be reasonably predicted using only composition, optical basicity values for the constituent oxides, and partial molar volume coefficients. Calculations such as these are useful for a priori prediction of optical properties of glasses.« less

Cryogenic Refractive Indices of S-LAH55, S-LAH55V, S-LAH59, S-LAM3, S-NBM51, S-NPH2, S-PHM52, and S-TIH14 Glasses

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Miller, Kevin H.; Quijada, Manuel A.; Leviton, Douglas B.

2015-01-01

The Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) is an explorer-class planet finder, whose principal goal is to detect small planets with bright host starts in the solar neighborhood. The TESS payload consists of four identical cameras and a Data Handling Unit (DHU) fitted with CCD detectors and associated electronics. Each camera consist of a lens assembly with seven optical elements that include various types of Ohara glass substrates. The successful implementation of a panchromatic and a thermal lens assembly design for these cameras requires a fairly accurate (up to 0.000001 (1e-6)) knowledge of the temperature- and wavelength-dependent of the refractive index in the wavelength and temperature range of operation. Hence, this paper is devoted to report on measurements of the refractive index over the wavelength range of 0.42-1.15 micrometers and temperature range of 110-300 K for the following Ohara glasses: S-LAH55, S-LAH55V, S-LAH59, S-LAM3, S-NBM51, S-NPH2, S-PHM52, and S-TIH14. The measurements were performed utilizing the Cryogenic High Accuracy Refraction Measuring System (CHARMS) facility at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. A dense coverage of the absolute refractive index for all these substrates in the aforementioned wavelength and temperature ranges was used to determine the thermo-optic coefficient (dndT) and dispersion relation (dnd) as a function of wavelength and temperature. A comparison of the measured indices with literature values, specifically the temperature-dependent refractive indices of S-PHM52 and S-TIH14 reported by Yamamuro et al. [Yamamuro et al., Opt. Eng. 45(8), 083401 (2006)], will be presented.

Geometrical-optics approximation of forward scattering by gradient-index spheres.

PubMed

Li, Xiangzhen; Han, Xiang'e; Li, Renxian; Jiang, Huifen

2007-08-01

By means of geometrical optics we present an approximation method for acceleration of the computation of the scattering intensity distribution within a forward angular range (0-60 degrees ) for gradient-index spheres illuminated by a plane wave. The incident angle of reflected light is determined by the scattering angle, thus improving the approximation accuracy. The scattering angle and the optical path length are numerically integrated by a general-purpose integrator. With some special index models, the scattering angle and the optical path length can be expressed by a unique function and the calculation is faster. This method is proved effective for transparent particles with size parameters greater than 50. It fails to give good approximation results at scattering angles whose refractive rays are in the backward direction. For different index models, the geometrical-optics approximation is effective only for forward angles, typically those less than 60 degrees or when the refractive-index difference of a particle is less than a certain value.

Interferometric measurement of refractive index modification in a single mode microfiber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahmed, Farid; Ahsani, Vahid; Jun, Martin B. G.

2017-02-01

Efficient and cost effective measurement of the refractive index profile in an optical fiber is a significant technical job to design and manufacture in-fiber photonic devices and communication systems. For instance, to design fiber gratings, it is required to estimate the refractive index modulation to be inscribed by the fabrication apparatus such as ultraviolet or infrared lasers. Mach-Zehnder interferometer (MZI) based quantification of refractive index change written in single mode microfiber by femtosecond laser radiation is presented in this study. The MZI is constructed by splicing a microfiber (core diameter: 3.75 μm, cladding diameter: 40 μm) between standard single mode fibers. To measure the RI inscribed by infrared femtosecond laser, 200 μm length of the core within the MZI was scanned with laser radiation. As the higher index was written within 200 μm length of the core, the transmission spectrum of the interferometer displayed a corresponding red shift. The observed spectral shift was used to calculate the amount of refractive index change inscribed by the femtosecond irradiation. For the MZI length of 3.25 mm, and spectral shift of 0.8 nm, the calculated refractive index was found to be 0.00022. The reported results display excellent agreement between theory and experimental findings. Demonstrated method provides simple yet very effective on-site measurement of index change in optical fibers. Since the MZI can be constructed in diverse fiber types, this technique offers flexibility to quantify index change in various optical fibers.

Method and apparatus of highly linear optical modulation

DOEpatents

DeRose, Christopher; Watts, Michael R.

2016-05-03

In a new optical intensity modulator, a nonlinear change in refractive index is used to balance the nonlinearities in the optical transfer function in a way that leads to highly linear optical intensity modulation.

Computational determination of refractive index distribution in the crystalline cones of the compound eye of Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba).

PubMed

Gál, József; Miyazaki, Taeko; Meyer-Rochow, Victor Benno

2007-01-21

In order to understand how a compound eye channels light to the retina and forms an image, one needs to know the refractive index distribution in the crystalline cones. Direct measurements of the refractive indices require sections of fresh, unfixed tissue and the use of an interference microscope, but frequently neither is available. Using the eye of the Antarctic krill Euphausia superba (the main food of baleen whales) we developed a computational method to predict a likely refractive index distribution non-invasively from sections of fixed material without the need of an interference microscope. We used a computer model of the eye and calculated the most realistic spatial distribution of the refractive index gradient in the crystalline cone that would enable the eye to produce a sharp image on the retina. The animals are known to see well and on the basis of our computations we predict that for the eyes of the adult a maximum refractive index of 1.45-1.50 in the centre of the cone yields a better angular sensitivity and light absorption in a target receptor of the retina than if N(max) were 1.55. In juveniles with a narrower spatial separation between dioptric structures and retina, however, an N(max) of 1.50-1.55 gives a superior result. Our method to determine the most likely refractive index distribution in the cone without the need of fresh material and an interference microscope could be useful in the study of other invertebrate eyes that are known to possess good resolving power, but for a variety of reasons are not suitable for or will not permit direct refractive index measurements of their dioptric tissues to be taken.

Optical characterization of extremely small volumes of liquid in sub-micro-holes by simultaneous reflectivity, ellipsometry and spectrometry.

PubMed

Holgado, M; Casquel, R; Sánchez, B; Molpeceres, C; Morales, M; Ocaña, J L

2007-10-01

We have fabricated and characterized a lattice of submicron cone-shaped holes on a SiO(2)/Si wafer. Reflectivity profiles as a function of angle of incidence and polarization, phase shift and spectrometry are obtained for several fluids with different refractive indexes filling the holes. The optical setup allows measuring in the center of a single hole and collecting all data simultaneously, which can be applied for measuring extremely low volumes of fluid (in the order of 0.1 femtolitres) and label-free immunoassays, as it works as a refractive index sensor. A three layer film stack model is defined to perform theoretical calculations.

High-speed varifocal imaging with a tunable acoustic gradient index of refraction lens.

PubMed

Mermillod-Blondin, Alexandre; McLeod, Euan; Arnold, Craig B

2008-09-15

Fluidic lenses allow for varifocal optical elements, but current approaches are limited by the speed at which focal length can be changed. Here we demonstrate the use of a tunable acoustic gradient (TAG) index of refraction lens as a fast varifocal element. The optical power of the TAG lens varies continuously, allowing for rapid selection and modification of the effective focal length at time scales of 1 mus and shorter. The wavefront curvature applied to the incident light is experimentally quantified as a function of time, and single-frame imaging is demonstrated. Results indicate that the TAG lens can successfully be employed to perform high-rate imaging at multiple locations.

Optical parameters and dispersion behavior of potassium magnesium chloride sulfate single crystals doped with Co+2 ions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abu El-Fadl, A.; Abd-Elsalam, A. M.

2018-05-01

Single crystals of potassium magnesium chloride sulfate (KMCS) doped with cobalt ions were grown by slow cooling method. Powder XRD study confirmed the monoclinic structure of the grown crystals. The functional group vibrations were checked through FTIR spectroscopy measurements. In optical studies, the absorbance behavior of the crystals and their optical energy gap were established by Tauc plot. The refractive index, the extinction coefficient and other optical constants were calculated for the grown crystals. The normal dispersion of the refractive index was analyzed according to single oscillator Sellmeier's model. The Urbach's rule was applied to analyze the localized states density in the forbidden gap.

Theory of Fiber Optical Bragg Grating: Revisited

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Tai, H.

2003-01-01

The reflected signature of an optical fiber Bragg grating is analyzed using the transfer function method. This approach is capable to cast all relevant quantities into proper places and provides a better physical understanding. The relationship between reflected signal, number of periods, index of refraction, and reflected wave phase is elucidated. The condition for which the maximum reflectivity is achieved is fully examined. We also have derived an expression to predict the reflectivity minima accurately when the reflected wave is detuned. Furthermore, using the segmented potential approach, this model can handle arbitrary index of refraction profiles and compare the strength of optical reflectivity of different profiles. The condition of a non-uniform grating is also addressed.

Chemical Sensing Sensitivity of Long-Period Grating Sensor Enhanced by Colloidal Gold Nanoparticles

PubMed Central

Tang, Jaw-Luen; Wang, Jien-Neng

2008-01-01

A simple and effective method is proposed to improve spectral sensitivity and detection limit of long period gratings for refractive index or chemical sensing, where the grating surface is modified by a monolayer of colloidal gold nanoparticles. The transmission spectra and optical properties of gold nanospheres vary with the different refractive index of the environment near the surface of gold nanospheres. The sensor response of gold colloids increases linearly with solvents of increasing refractive index. The results for the measurement of sucrose and sodium chloride solutions are reported, which show that this type of sensor can provide a limiting resolution of ∼10-3 to ∼10-4 for refractive indices in the range of 1.34 to 1.39 and a noticeable increase in detection limit of refractive index to external medium. PMID:27879701

Low-refractive-index dye-aggregate films with small absorption based on anomalous dispersion.

PubMed

Wakamatsu, Takashi; Watanabe, Keita; Saito, Kazuhiro

2005-02-20

Complex-refractive-index spectra of Squarylium (SQ) dye-aggregate films deposited upon metal films have been investigated by measurements of properties of the films including absorption spectra (AS) and attenuated total reflection. Complex refractive indices are estimated by Kramers-Kronig analysis for the AS and by a theoretical curve-fitting analysis for attenuated total reflection. The dye-aggregate films exhibited an absorption that was blueshifted from that of a monomer, as a result of the H-aggregate formation of SQ molecules, and had a changing refractive index with anomalous dispersion about the H-absorption band. From both measurements of the SQ films it was found that there is a region of low absorption in the short-wavelength side of the absorption band and that the refractive index there is lower than that of glass.

Low-refractive-index dye-aggregate films with small absorption based on anomalous dispersion

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wakamatsu, Takashi; Watanabe, Keita; Saito, Kazuhiro

2005-02-01

Complex-refractive-index spectra of Squarylium (SQ) dye-aggregate films deposited upon metal films have been investigated by measurements of properties of the films including absorption spectra (AS) and attenuated total reflection. Complex refractive indices are estimated by Kramers-Kronig analysis for the AS and by a theoretical curve-fitting analysis for attenuated total reflection. The dye-aggregate films exhibited an absorption that was blueshifted from that of a monomer, as a result of the H-aggregate formation of SQ molecules, and had a changing refractive index with anomalous dispersion about the H-absorption band. From both measurements of the SQ films it was found that there is a region of low absorption in the short-wavelength side of the absorption band and that the refractive index there is lower than that of glass.

Femtosecond laser writing of new type of waveguides in silver containing glasses (Conference Presentation)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abou Khalil, Alain; Bérubé, Jean-Philippe; Danto, Sylvain; Desmoulin, Jean-Charles; Cardinal, Thierry; Petit, Yannick G.; Canioni, Lionel; Vallée, Réal

2017-03-01

Femtosecond laser writing in glasses is a growing field of research and development in photonics, since it provides a versatile, robust and efficient approach to directly address 3D material structuring. Laser-glass interaction process has been studied for many years, especially the local changes of the refractive index that have been classified by three distinct types (types I, II and III, respectively). These refractive index modifications are widely used for the creation of photonics devices such as waveguides [1], couplers, photonic crystals to fabricate integrated optical functions in glasses for photonic applications as optical circuits or integrated sensors. Femtosecond laser writing in a home-developed silver containing zinc phosphate glasses induces the creation of fluorescent silver clusters distributed around the laser-glass interaction voxel [2]. In this paper, we introduce a new type of refractive index modification in glasses. It is based on the creation of these photo-induced silver clusters allowing a local change in the refractive index Δn = 5×10-3, which is sufficient for the creation of waveguides and photonics devices. The wave guiding process in our glasses along these structures with original geometry is demonstrated for wavelengths from visible to NIR [3], giving a promising access to integrated optical circuits in these silver containing glasses. Moreover, the characterization of the waveguides is presented, including their original geometry, the refractive index change, the mode profile, the estimation of propagation losses and a comparison with simulation results. 1. K. M. Davis, K. Miura, N. Sugimoto, and K. Hirao, Opt. Lett. 21, 1729-1731 (1996). 2. M. Bellec, A. Royon, K. Bourhis, J. Choi, B. Bousquet, M. Treguer, T. Cardinal, J.-J. Videau, M. Richardson, and L. Canioni, The Journal of Physical Chemistry C 114, 15584-15588 (2010). 3. S. Danto, F. Désévédavy, Y. Petit, J.-C. Desmoulin, A. Abou Khalil, C. Strutynski, M. Dussauze, F. Smektala, T. Cardinal, and L. Canioni, Advanced Optical Materials 4, 162-168 (2016).

Optical Super-Resolution by High-Index Liquid-Immersed Microspheres

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-01-01

the BD without liquid can be achieved using microspheres with small-to-moderate index of refraction such as borosilicate glass (n 1.47), soda lime ...titanate glass microspheres with diameters (D) in the range 2–220 lm and with high refractive index (n 1.9–2.1) can be used for super-resolution...achieving optical super-resolution. It has been demonstrated10 that silica spheres with refractive index (n) about 1.46 and with diame- ters (D) in the

Effects of Source Correlations on the Spectrum of Radiated Fields

DTIC Science & Technology

1990-09-01

media. When the refractive index n(co) is nearly constant over the source spectral width, the medium acts as a non- dispersive homogeneous medium of...constant refractive index no = n(w0 ), where o is the central frequency of the source spectrum. We will consider the non- dispersive case first. It is...in free space (a), for propagation in a homogeneous medium of an index of refraction n((o) = 1.5 (b) and for propagation in a medium of index of

Silicon-nanocrystal Optoelectronic Kerr Effect for Complementary Metal-oxide Semiconductor (CMOS) Compatible Optical Switching

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-04-01

changes the material’s index of refraction via dispersion . This absorption requires carrier transport and, in present implementations, suffers from slow...designed to take advantage of the large Kerr effect that has been reported in Si-nanocrystals imbedded in oxide (Si-nc). The expected refractive index ...estimate of the expected refractive index change versus applied voltage. An index change of ~2 x 10–4 is enough to modulate the light, corresponding to a

Stochastic digital holography for visualizing inside strongly refracting transparent objects.

PubMed

Desse, Jean-Michel; Picart, Pascal

2015-01-01

This paper presents a digital holographic method to visualize and measure refractive index variations, convection currents, or thermal gradients, occurring inside a transparent and refracting object. The proof of principle is provided through the visualization of refractive index variation inside a lighting bulb. Comparison with transmission and reflection holography is also provided. A very good agreement is obtained, thus validating the proposed approach.

On-fiber plasmonic interferometer for multi-parameter sensing

DOE PAGES

Zhang, Zhijian; Chen, Yongyao; Liu, Haijun; ...

2015-01-01

We demonstrate a novel miniature multi-parameter sensing device based on a plasmonic interferometer fabricated on a fiber facet in the optical communication wavelength range. This device enables the coupling between surface plasmon resonance and plasmonic interference in the structure, which are the two essential mechanisms for multi-parameter sensing. We experimentally show that these two mechanisms have distinctive responses to temperature and refractive index, rendering the device the capability of simultaneous temperature and refractive index measurement on an ultra-miniature form factor. A high refractive index sensitivity of 220 nm per refractive index unit (RIU) and a high temperature sensitivity of –60more » pm/ °C is achieved with our device.« less

Measurement of the refractive index of hemoglobin solutions for a continuous spectral region

PubMed Central

Wang, Jin; Deng, Zhichao; Wang, Xiaowan; Ye, Qing; Zhou, Wenyuan; Mei, Jianchun; Zhang, Chunping; Tian, Jianguo

2015-01-01

Determination of the refractive index of hemoglobin solutions over a wide wavelength range remains challenging. A famous detour approach is the Kramers-Kronig (KK) analysis which can resolve the real part of complex refractive index from the imaginary part. However, KK analysis is limited by the contradiction between the requirement of semi-infinite frequency range and limited measured range. In this paper, based on the Multi-curve fitting method (MFM), continuous refractive index dispersion (CRID) of oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin solutions are measured using a homemade symmetrical arm-linked apparatus in the continuous wavelength range with spectral resolution of about 0.259nm. A novel method to obtain the CRID is proposed. PMID:26203379

Preparation of MgF2-SiO2 thin films with a low refractive index by a solgel process.

PubMed

Ishizawa, Hitoshi; Niisaka, Shunsuke; Murata, Tsuyoshi; Tanaka, Akira

2008-05-01

Porous MgF(2)-SiO(2) thin films consisting of MgF(2) particles connected by an amorphous SiO(2) binder are prepared by a solgel process. The films have a low refractive index of 1.26, sufficient strength to withstand wiping by a cloth, and a high environmental resistance. The refractive index of the film can be controlled by changing the processing conditions. Films can be uniformly formed on curved substrates and at relatively low temperatures, such as 100 degrees C. The low refractive index of the film, which cannot be achieved by conventional dry processes, is effective in improving the performance of antireflective coatings.

Enhancement of graphene visibility on transparent substrates by refractive index optimization.

PubMed

Gonçalves, Hugo; Alves, Luís; Moura, Cacilda; Belsley, Michael; Stauber, Tobias; Schellenberg, Peter

2013-05-20

Optical reflection microscopy is one of the main imaging tools to visualize graphene microstructures. Here is reported a novel method that employs refractive index optimization in an optical reflection microscope, which greatly improves the visibility of graphene flakes. To this end, an immersion liquid with a refractive index that is close to that of the glass support is used in-between the microscope lens and the support improving the contrast and resolution of the sample image. Results show that the contrast of single and few layer graphene crystals and structures can be enhanced by a factor of 4 compared to values commonly achieved with transparent substrates using optical reflection microscopy lacking refractive index optimization.

A method for the detection of the refractive index of irregular shape solid pigments in light absorbing liquid matrix.

PubMed

Niskanen, Ilpo; Räty, Jukka; Peiponen, Kai-Erik

2010-06-15

The immersion liquid method is powerful for the measurement of the refractive index of solid particles in a liquid matrix. However, this method applies best for cases when the liquid matrix is transparent. A problem is usually how to assess the refractive index of a pigment when it is in a colored host liquid. In this article we introduce a method, and show that by combining so-called multifunction spectrophotometer, immersion liquid method and detection of light transmission and reflection we can assess the refractive index of a pigment in a colored liquid, and also the extinction or absorption coefficient of the host liquid.

Effect of Pressure on Some Optical Properties of GaxIn1-xP Semiconductors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vyas, P.; Gajjar, P.; Jani, A.

2013-06-01

A theoretical procedure is presented for the study of optical properties of ternary alloy GaxIn1-xP. The calculations are based on the pseudopotential formalism in which local potential coupled with the virtual crystal approximation (VCA) is applied to evaluate the effect of pressure on the optical properties like refractive index, electronic polarizability, plasmon energy, dielectric constant and equation of state for gallium concentration x = 0, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75 and 1 of the ternary alloy GaxIn1-xP. To incorporate the screening effect, local field correction functions due to Hartree, Taylor, Ichimaru et al. and Nagy are employed. The refractive index, electronic polarizability and dielectric constant computed for the parent binary compounds GaP and InP are found to be satisfactorily agreeing with the experimental report. It is seen that the refractive index of GaxIn1-xP decreases nonlinearly with the increase in pressure. The results obtained using Hartree's screening functions are not very close to the experimental data as it does not include any exchange and correlation effects. Overall good agreement with the experimental and other theoretical findings confirms the application. The author P. S. Vyas is thankful to UGC, New Delhi, India for providing financial support under minor research project No. F.: 47-651/08(WRO).

Effective group index of refraction in non-thermal plasma photonic crystals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mousavi, A.; Sadegzadeh, S.

2015-11-01

Plasma photonic crystals (PPCs) are periodic arrays that consist of alternate layers of micro-plasma and dielectric. These structures are used to control the propagation of electromagnetic waves. This paper presents a survey of research on the effect of non-thermal plasma with bi-Maxwellian distribution function on one dimensional PPC. A plasma with temperature anisotropy is not in thermodynamic equilibrium and can be described by the bi-Maxwellian distribution function. By using Kronig-Penny's model, the dispersion relation of electromagnetic modes in one dimensional non-thermal PPC (NPPC) is derived. The band structure, group velocity vg, and effective group index of refraction neff(g) of such NPPC structure with TeO2 as the material of dielectric layers have been studied. The concept of negative group velocity and negative neff(g), which indicates an anomalous behaviour of the PPCs, are also observed in the NPPC structures. Our numerical results provide confirmatory evidence that unlike PPCs there are finite group velocity and non-zero effective group indexes of refraction in photonic band gaps (PBGs) that lie in certain ranges of normalized frequency. In other words, inside the PBGs of NPPCs, neff(g) becomes non-zero and photons travel with a finite group velocity. In this special case, this velocity varies alternately between 20c and negative values of the order 103c (c is the speed of light in vacuum).

Multistage polymeric lens structure in silica-waveguides for photonic functional circuits

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tate, Atsushi; Suzuki, Takanori; Tsuda, Hiroyuki

2005-04-01

A waveguide lens composed of multistage polymer-filled thin grooves in a silica planar lightwave circuit (PLC) is proposed and the low-loss structure is designed. Both an imaging optical system and a Fourier-Transform optical system can be configured in a PLC by use of a waveguide lens. It makes a PLC functional and its design flexible. Moreover, a focal length of a lens is tunable with large thermo-optic effect of the polymer. A concatenated lens is formed to attain a desirable focal length with low-loss. The thickness of each lens and the spacing are about 10-50 microns. The simulation showed that the radiation loss of the light propagate through 20-stage grooves filled with a polymer was only 0.868 dB when the refractive index of the polymer was 1.57, the groove width was 30 microns, and the spacing between adjacent grooves was 15 microns. For example, the single lens structure that the center thickness is 30 microns, the diameter is 300 microns, and the refractive index of the polymer was 1.57, have a focal length of 4600 microns. The focal length of 450 microns can be obtained with 20-stage concatenated lens structure. The larger numerical aperture can be realized with a polymer of higher refractive index. We have applied the concatenated lens structure to various photonic circuits including optical couplers, a variable optical attenuator.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Hilfiker, James N.; Stadermann, Michael; Sun, Jianing

It is a well-known challenge to determine refractive index (n) from ultra-thin films where the thickness is less than about 10 nm. In this paper, we discovered an interesting exception to this issue while characterizing spectroscopic ellipsometry (SE) data from isotropic, free-standing polymer films. Ellipsometry analysis shows that both thickness and refractive index can be independently determined for free-standing films as thin as 5 nm. Simulations further confirm an orthogonal separation between thickness and index effects on the experimental SE data. Effects of angle of incidence and wavelength on the data and sensitivity are discussed. Finally, while others have demonstratedmore » methods to determine refractive index from ultra-thin films, our analysis provides the first results to demonstrate high-sensitivity to the refractive index from ultra-thin layers.« less

Gradient Refractive Index Lenses.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Morton, N.

1984-01-01

Describes the nature of gradient refractive index (GRIN) lenses, focusing on refraction in these materials, focal length of a thin Wood lens, and on manufacturing of such lenses. Indicates that GRIN lenses of small cross section are in limited production with applications suggested for optical communication and photocopying fields. (JN)

Variable Refractive Index Effects on Radiation in Semitransparent Scattering Multilayered Regions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Siegel, R.; Spuckler, C. M.

1993-01-01

A simple set of equations is derived for predicting the temperature distribution and radiative energy flow in a semitransparent layer consisting of an arbitrary number of laminated sublayers that absorb, emit, and scatter radiation. Each sublayer can have a different refractive index and optical thickness. The plane composite region is heated on each exterior side by a different amount of incident radiation. The results are for the limiting case where heat conduction within the layers is very small relative to radiative transfer, and is neglected. The interfaces are assumed diffuse, and all interface reflections are included in the analysis. The thermal behavior is readily calculated from the analytical expressions that are obtained. By using many sublayers, expressions provide the temperature distribution and heat flow for a diffusing medium with a continually varying refractive index, including internal reflection effects caused by refractive index gradients. Temperature and heat flux results are given to show the effect of variations in refractive index and optical thickness through the multilayer laminate.

Correct consideration of the index of refraction using blackbody radiation.

PubMed

Hartmann, Jurgen

2006-09-04

The correct consideration of the index of refraction when using blackbody radiators as standard sources for optical radiation is derived and discussed. It is shown that simply using the index of refraction of air at laboratory conditions is not sufficient. A combination of the index of refraction of the media used inside the blackbody radiator and for the optical path between blackbody and detector has to be used instead. A worst case approximation for the introduced error when neglecting these effects is presented, showing that the error is below 0.1 % for wavelengths above 200 nm. Nevertheless, for the determination of the spectral radiance for the purpose of radiation temperature measurements the correct consideration of the refractive index is mandatory. The worst case estimation reveals that the introduced error in temperature at a blackbody temperature of 3000 degrees C can be as high as 400 mk at a wavelength of 650 nm and even higher at longer wavelengths.

Complex refractive index of normal and malignant human colorectal tissue in the visible and near-infrared.

PubMed

Giannios, Panagiotis; Koutsoumpos, Spyridon; Toutouzas, Konstantinos G; Matiatou, Maria; Zografos, George C; Moutzouris, Konstantinos

2017-02-01

A multi-wavelength prism coupling refractometer is utilized to measure the angular reflectance of freshly excised human intestinal tissue specimens. Based on reflectance data, the real and imaginary part of the refractive index is calculated via Fresnel analysis for three visible (blue, green, red) and two near-infrared (963 nm and 1551 nm) wavelengths. Averaged values of the complex refractive index and corresponding Cauchy dispersion fits are given for the mucosa, submucosa and serosa layers of the colorectal wall at the normal state. The refractive constants of tumorous and normal mucosa are then cross-compared for the indicative cases of one patient diagnosed with a benign polyp and three patients diagnosed with adenocarcinomas of different phenotype. Significant index contrast exists between the normal and diseased states, indicating the potential use of refractive index as a marker of colorectal dysplasia. © 2016 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Non-uniform refractive index field measurement based on light field imaging technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Du, Xiaokun; Zhang, Yumin; Zhou, Mengjie; Xu, Dong

2018-02-01

In this paper, a method for measuring the non-uniform refractive index field based on the light field imaging technique is proposed. First, the light field camera is used to collect the four-dimensional light field data, and then the light field data is decoded according to the light field imaging principle to obtain image sequences with different acquisition angles of the refractive index field. Subsequently PIV (Particle Image Velocimetry) technique is used to extract ray offset of each image. Finally, the distribution of non-uniform refractive index field can be calculated by inversing the deflection of light rays. Compared with traditional optical methods which require multiple optical detectors from multiple angles to synchronously collect data, the method proposed in this paper only needs a light field camera and shoot once. The effectiveness of the method has been verified by the experiment which quantitatively measures the distribution of the refractive index field above the flame of the alcohol lamp.

Absolute distance measurement with correction of air refractive index by using two-color dispersive interferometry.

PubMed

Wu, Hanzhong; Zhang, Fumin; Liu, Tingyang; Li, Jianshuang; Qu, Xinghua

2016-10-17

Two-color interferometry is powerful for the correction of the air refractive index especially in the turbulent air over long distance, since the empirical equations could introduce considerable measurement uncertainty if the environmental parameters cannot be measured with sufficient precision. In this paper, we demonstrate a method for absolute distance measurement with high-accuracy correction of air refractive index using two-color dispersive interferometry. The distances corresponding to the two wavelengths can be measured via the spectrograms captured by a CCD camera pair in real time. In the long-term experiment of the correction of air refractive index, the experimental results show a standard deviation of 3.3 × 10^-8 for 12-h continuous measurement without the precise knowledge of the environmental conditions, while the variation of the air refractive index is about 2 × 10^-6. In the case of absolute distance measurement, the comparison with the fringe counting interferometer shows an agreement within 2.5 μm in 12 m range.

Measurement of refractive index of photopolymer for holographic gratings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Watanabe, Eriko; Mizuno, Jun; Fujikawa, Chiemi; Kodate, Kashiko

2007-02-01

We have made attempts to measure directly the small-scale variation of optical path lengths in photopolymer samples. For those with uniform thickness, the measured quantity is supposed to be proportional to the refractive index of the photopolymer. The system is based on a Mach-Zehnder interferometer using phase-locking technique and measures the change in optical path length during the sample is scanned across the optical axis. The spatial resolution is estimated to be 2μm, which is limited by the sample thickness. The path length resolution is estimated to be 6nm, which corresponds to the change in refractive index less than 10 -3 for the sample of 10μm thick. The measurement results showed clearly that the refractive index of photopolymer is not simply proportional to the exposure energy, contrary to the conventional photosensitive materials such as silver halide emulsion and dichromated gelatine. They also revealed the refractive index fluctuation in uniformly exposed photopolymer sample, which explains the milky appearance that sometimes observed in thick samples.

Plasma Parameters From Reentry Signal Attenuation

DOE PAGES

Statom, T. K.

2018-02-27

This study presents the application of a theoretically developed method that provides plasma parameter solution space information from measured RF attenuation that occurs during reentry. The purpose is to provide reentry plasma parameter information from the communication signal attenuation. The theoretical development centers around the attenuation and the complex index of refraction. The methodology uses an imaginary index of the refraction matching algorithm with a tolerance to find suitable solutions that satisfy the theory. The imaginary matching terms are then used to determine the real index of refraction resulting in the complex index of refraction. Then a filter is usedmore » to reject nonphysical solutions. Signal attenuation-based plasma parameter properties investigated include the complex index of refraction, plasma frequency, electron density, collision frequency, propagation constant, attenuation constant, phase constant, complex plasma conductivity, and electron mobility. RF plasma thickness attenuation is investigated and compared to the literature. Finally, similar plasma thickness for a specific signal attenuation can have different plasma properties.« less

An investigation into dispersion upon switching between solvents within a microfluidic system using a chemically resistant integrated optical refractive index sensor.

PubMed

Parker, Richard M; Gates, James C; Wales, Dominic J; Smith, Peter G R; Grossel, Martin C

2013-02-07

A planar Bragg grating device has been developed that is capable of detecting changes in the refractive index of a wide range of fluids including solvents, acids and bases. The integration of this high precision refractive index sensor within a chemically resistant microfluidic flow system has enabled the investigation of diverse fluid interactions. By cycling between different solvents, both miscible and immiscible, within the microfluidic system it is shown that the previous solvent determines the nature of the refractive index profile across the transition in composition. This solvent dispersion effect is investigated with particular attention to the methanol-water transition, where transients in refractive index are observed that are an order of magnitude larger in amplitude than the difference between the bulk fluids. The potential complications of such phenomenon are discussed together with an example of a device that exploits this effect for the unambiguous composition measurement of a binary solvent system.

Refractive index of solutions of human hemoglobin from the near-infrared to the ultraviolet range: Kramers-Kronig analysis.

PubMed

Sydoruk, Oleksiy; Zhernovaya, Olga; Tuchin, Valery; Douplik, Alexandre

2012-11-01

Because direct measurements of the refractive index of hemoglobin over a large wavelength range are challenging, indirect methods deserve particular attention. Among them, the Kramers-Kronig relations are a powerful tool often used to derive the real part of a refractive index from its imaginary part. However, previous attempts to apply the relations to solutions of human hemoglobin have been somewhat controversial, resulting in disagreement between several studies. We show that this controversy can be resolved when careful attention is paid not only to the absorption of hemoglobin but also to the dispersion of the refractive index of the nonabsorbing solvent. We present a Kramers-Kroning analysis taking both contributions into account and compare the results with the data from several studies. Good agreement with experiments is found across the visible and parts of near-infrared and ultraviolet regions. These results reinstate the use of the Kramers-Kronig relations for hemoglobin solutions and provide an additional source of information about their refractive index.

Variable Refractive Index Effects on Radiation in Semitransparent Scattering Multilayered Regions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Siegel, R.; Spuckler, C. M.

1993-01-01

A simple set of equations is derived for predicting the temperature distribution and radiative energy flow in a semitransparent layer consisting of an arbitrary number of laminated sublayers that absorb, emit, and scatter radiation. Each sublayer can have a different refractive index and optical thickness. The plane composite region is heated on each exterior side by a different amount of incident radiation. The results are for the limiting case where heat conduction within the layers is very small relative to radiative transfer, and is neglected. The interfaces are assumed diffuse, and all interface reflections are included in the analysis. The thermal behavior is readily calculated from the analytical expressions that are obtained. By using many sublayers, the analytical expressions provide the temperature distribution and heat flow for a diffusing medium with a continuously varying refractive index, including internal reflection effects caused by refractive index gradients. Temperature and heat flux results are given to show the effect of variations in refractive index and optical thickness through the multilayer laminate.

Antireflective coatings with adjustable refractive index and porosity synthesized by micelle-templated deposition of MgF2 sol particles.

PubMed

Bernsmeier, Denis; Polte, Jörg; Ortel, Erik; Krahl, Thoralf; Kemnitz, Erhard; Kraehnert, Ralph

2014-11-26

Minimizing efficiency losses caused by unwanted light reflection at the interface between lenses, optical instruments and solar cells with the surrounding medium requires antireflective coatings with adequate refractive index and coating thickness. We describe a new type of antireflective coating material with easily and independently tailorable refractive index and coating thickness based on the deposition of colloidal MgF2 nanoparticles. The material synthesis employs micelles of amphiphilic block copolymers as structure directing agent to introduce controlled mesoporosity into MgF2 film. The coatings thickness can be easily adjusted by the applied coating conditions. The coatings refractive index is determined by the materials porosity, which is controlled by the amount of employed pore template. The refractive index can be precisely tuned between 1.23 and 1.11, i.e., in a range that is not accessible to nonporous inorganic materials. Hence, zero reflectance conditions can be established for a wide range of substrate materials.

Plasma Parameters From Reentry Signal Attenuation

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Statom, T. K.

This study presents the application of a theoretically developed method that provides plasma parameter solution space information from measured RF attenuation that occurs during reentry. The purpose is to provide reentry plasma parameter information from the communication signal attenuation. The theoretical development centers around the attenuation and the complex index of refraction. The methodology uses an imaginary index of the refraction matching algorithm with a tolerance to find suitable solutions that satisfy the theory. The imaginary matching terms are then used to determine the real index of refraction resulting in the complex index of refraction. Then a filter is usedmore » to reject nonphysical solutions. Signal attenuation-based plasma parameter properties investigated include the complex index of refraction, plasma frequency, electron density, collision frequency, propagation constant, attenuation constant, phase constant, complex plasma conductivity, and electron mobility. RF plasma thickness attenuation is investigated and compared to the literature. Finally, similar plasma thickness for a specific signal attenuation can have different plasma properties.« less

Index of refraction engineering in five-level dressed interacting ground states atoms.

PubMed

Sagona-Stophel, Steven A; Weatherall, James Owen; Search, Christopher P

2011-08-15

We present a five-level atomic system in which the index of refraction of a probe laser can be enhanced or reduced below unity with vanishing absorption in the region between pairs of absorption and gain lines formed by dressing of the atoms with a control laser and rf/microwave fields. By weak incoherent pumping of the population into a single metastable state, one can create several narrow amplifying resonances. At frequencies between these gain lines and additional absorption lines, there exist regions of vanishing absorption but resonantly enhanced index of refraction. In Rb vapors with density N in units of cm(-3), we predict an index of refraction up to n≈√(1+1.2×10(-14)N) for the D1 line, which is more than an order of magnitude larger than other proposals for index of refraction enhancement. Furthermore, the index can be readily reduced below 1 by simply changing the sign of the probe or rf field detunings. This enhancement is robust with respect to homogeneous and inhomogeneous broadening. © 2011 Optical Society of America

Refractive Index of Sodium Iodide

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jellison Jr, Gerald Earle; Boatner, Lynn A; Ramey, Joanne Oxendine

2012-01-01

The refractive index of sodium iodide, an important scintillator material that is widely used for radiation detection, is based on a single measurement made by Spangenberg at one wavelength using the index-matching liquid immersion method (Z. Kristallogr., 57, 494-534 (1923)). In the present paper, we present new results for the refractive index of sodium iodide as measured by the minimum deviation technique at six wavelengths between 436 nm (n=1.839 0.002) and 633 nm (n=1.786 0.002). These 6 measurements can be fit to a Sellmeier model, resulting in a 2 of 1.02, indicating a good fit to the data. In addition,more » we report on ellipsometry measurements, which suggest that the near-surface region of the air sensitive NaI crystal seriously degrades, even in a moisture-free environment, resulting in a significantly lower value of the refractive index near the surface. First-principles theoretical calculations of the NaI refractive index that agree with the measured values within 0.025-0.045 are also presented and discussed.« less

Refractive index and viscosity: dual sensing with plastic fibre gratings

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ferreira, Ricardo; Bilro, Lúcia; Marques, Carlos; Oliveira, Ricardo; Nogueira, Rogério

2014-05-01

A refractive index and viscosity sensor based on FBGs in mPOF is reported for the first time. The refractive index was measured with a sensitivity of -10:98nm=RIU and a resolution of 1 - 10-4RIU. Viscosity measurements were performed with acousto-optic modulation, obtaining a sensitivity of -94:42%=mPa • s and a resolution of 0:06mPa • s.

Selenium Interlayer for High-Efficiency Multijunction Solar Cell

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Landis, Geoffrey A (Inventor)

2015-01-01

A multi junction solar cell is provided and includes multiple semiconducting layers and an interface layer disposed between the multiple semiconducting layers. The interface layer is made from an interface bonding material that has a refractive index such that a ratio of a refractive index of each of the multiple semiconducting layers to the refractive index of the interface bonding material is less than or equal to 1.5.

Selenium Interlayer for High-Efficiency Multijunction Solar Cell

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Landis, Geoffrey A. (Inventor)

2016-01-01

A multi-junction solar cell is provided and includes multiple semiconducting layers and an interface layer disposed between the multiple semiconducting layers. The interface layer is made from an interface bonding material that has a refractive index such that a ratio of a refractive index of each of the multiple semiconducting layers to the refractive index of the interface bonding material is less than or equal to 1.5.

Development of 1.0- to 1.4-Micrometer Heterojunction LEDs.

DTIC Science & Technology

1980-04-01

dispersion of silica fibers decreases with increasing wavelength (2]. This is due to the wavelength dependence of the refractive index , which predicts...shown here is sufficient to provide strong electron confine- ment in the low-energy material (InGaAs). A similar difference in refractive index for these...bandgap and refractive - index steps discussed above form the basis of fabricating heterojunction emitters (both edge-emitting LEDs and lasers

Modeling of a Single-Notch Microfiber Coupler for High-Sensitivity and Low Detection-Limit Refractive Index Sensing.

PubMed

Zhang, Jiali; Shi, Lei; Zhu, Song; Xu, Xinbiao; Zhang, Xinliang

2016-05-11

A highly sensitive refractive index sensor with low detection limit based on an asymmetric optical microfiber coupler is proposed. It is composed of a silica optical microfiber and an As₂Se₃ optical microfiber. Due to the asymmetry of the microfiber materials, a single-notch transmission spectrum is demonstrated by the large refractive index difference between the two optical microfibers. Compared with the symmetric coupler, the bandwidth of the asymmetric structure is over one order of magnitude narrower than that of the former. Therefore, the asymmetric optical microfiber coupler based sensor can reach over one order of magnitude smaller detection limit, which is defined as the minimal detectable refractive index change caused by the surrounding analyte. With the advantage of large evanescent field, the results also show that a sensitivity of up to 3212 nm per refractive index unit with a bandwidth of 12 nm is achieved with the asymmetric optical microfiber coupler. Furthermore, a maximum sensitivity of 4549 nm per refractive index unit can be reached while the radii of the silica optical microfiber and As₂Se₃ optical microfiber are 0.5 μm and a 0.128 μm, respectively. This sensor component may have important potential for low detection-limit physical and biochemical sensing applications.

Refractive index measurement for biomaterial samples by total internal reflection.

PubMed

Jin, Y L; Chen, J Y; Xu, L; Wang, P N

2006-10-21

The refractive index of biological tissue is a fundamental parameter in applications of optical diagnosis and laser treatments. In the present work, the refractive indices and thermo-optic coefficients of some basic biomaterials, such as blood plasma, haemoglobin solution and lipid membrane, were studied by the method of total internal reflection at the wavelengths of 532 and 632.8 nm that are the most frequently used laser wavelengths in the biomedical field. The effects of the sample concentration and the temperature on refractive index were measured, and empirical relationships were summarized, accompanied by a theoretical explanation based on molecular polarization theory. The results provide some fundamental data for the refractive indices of these biomaterials under variant conditions, and also demonstrate that the total internal reflection method is a feasible and reliable way to measure the refractive indices of biological samples.

Numerical method based on transfer function for eliminating water vapor noise from terahertz spectra.

PubMed

Huang, Y; Sun, P; Zhang, Z; Jin, C

2017-07-10

Water vapor noise in the air affects the accuracy of optical parameters extracted from terahertz (THz) time-domain spectroscopy. In this paper, a numerical method was proposed to eliminate water vapor noise from the THz spectra. According to the Van Vleck-Weisskopf function and the linear absorption spectrum of water molecules in the HITRAN database, we simulated the water vapor absorption spectrum and real refractive index spectrum with a particular line width. The continuum effect of water vapor molecules was also considered. Theoretical transfer function of a different humidity was constructed through the theoretical calculation of the water vapor absorption coefficient and the real refractive index. The THz signal of the Lacidipine sample containing water vapor background noise in the continuous frequency domain of 0.5-1.8 THz was denoised by use of the method. The results show that the optical parameters extracted from the denoised signal are closer to the optical parameters in the dry nitrogen environment.

Fourier plane colorimetric sensing using broadband imaging of surface plasmons and application to biosensing

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Arora, P.; Krishnan, A., E-mail: ananthk@iitm.ac.in; Experimental Optics Laboratory, Department of Electrical Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Chennai-600036

We demonstrate an optical technique for refractive index and thickness sensing of sub-wavelength-thick dielectric analytes. The technique utilizes the broadband, multimode, directional leakage radiation arising from the excitation of hybrid mode surface plasmons (SP) on low aspect ratio periodic plasmonic substrates with period ≈λ. The approach requires relaxed fabrication tolerances compared to extra ordinary transmission-based sensing techniques, wherein minor shifts in the fabricated dimensions result in a very large change from the designed resonant wavelength. We show that refractive index perturbations due to about 10-nm-thick dielectric can be captured optically by the usage of carefully designed plasmonic substrates, a halogenmore » lamp source, free-space optical components, polarizers, and a low-end, consumer-grade charge coupled device camera. The plasmonic substrates were designed for converting the signature of hybrid mode SP excitation into a transmission peak by utilizing a thin homogeneous metal layer sandwiched between the periodic plasmonic structures and the substrate. The resonance is highly sensitive to the refractive index and thickness of the analyte superstrate. The excitation of hybrid mode SP results in a polarization rotation of 90° of the leaked radiation at resonant wavelength. In order to eliminate the problem of image registration (i.e., placing the same feature in the same pixel of the image, for comparison before and after a change in refractive index) for sensing, we perform the color analysis in the Fourier plane. The change in color of the bright emitted spot with highest momentum, corresponding to the leakage of fundamental SP mode, was used to measure the changes in refractive index, whereas the number and color of spots of lower momenta, corresponding to higher-order Fabry Perot modes, was used to measure the variation in thickness. We further show that the Fourier plane analysis can also be used to sense the index of thicker dielectrics, where real plane image analysis may fail to sense index perturbations, simply due to superposition of different modes in the real plane images of such substrates. Control experiments and analysis revealed a refractive index resolution of 10{sup –5} RIU. The results were correlated with simulations to establish the physical origin of the change in the fundamental mode and higher-order modes due to the refractive index and thickness of analyte. As a demonstration of an application and to test the limits of sensing, the substrates were used to image the surface functionalization using 2-nm-thick 11-mercaptoundecanoic acid and immobilization of 7-nm-thick mouse anti-human IgG antibody. In biological systems, where a priori knowledge about a process step is available, where accurate chemical composition testing is not necessary or possible, the presented method could be used to study the surface changes using a label-free sensing mechanism.« less

Fourier plane colorimetric sensing using broadband imaging of surface plasmons and application to biosensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Arora, P.; Krishnan, A.

2015-12-01

We demonstrate an optical technique for refractive index and thickness sensing of sub-wavelength-thick dielectric analytes. The technique utilizes the broadband, multimode, directional leakage radiation arising from the excitation of hybrid mode surface plasmons (SP) on low aspect ratio periodic plasmonic substrates with period ≈λ. The approach requires relaxed fabrication tolerances compared to extra ordinary transmission-based sensing techniques, wherein minor shifts in the fabricated dimensions result in a very large change from the designed resonant wavelength. We show that refractive index perturbations due to about 10-nm-thick dielectric can be captured optically by the usage of carefully designed plasmonic substrates, a halogen lamp source, free-space optical components, polarizers, and a low-end, consumer-grade charge coupled device camera. The plasmonic substrates were designed for converting the signature of hybrid mode SP excitation into a transmission peak by utilizing a thin homogeneous metal layer sandwiched between the periodic plasmonic structures and the substrate. The resonance is highly sensitive to the refractive index and thickness of the analyte superstrate. The excitation of hybrid mode SP results in a polarization rotation of 90° of the leaked radiation at resonant wavelength. In order to eliminate the problem of image registration (i.e., placing the same feature in the same pixel of the image, for comparison before and after a change in refractive index) for sensing, we perform the color analysis in the Fourier plane. The change in color of the bright emitted spot with highest momentum, corresponding to the leakage of fundamental SP mode, was used to measure the changes in refractive index, whereas the number and color of spots of lower momenta, corresponding to higher-order Fabry Perot modes, was used to measure the variation in thickness. We further show that the Fourier plane analysis can also be used to sense the index of thicker dielectrics, where real plane image analysis may fail to sense index perturbations, simply due to superposition of different modes in the real plane images of such substrates. Control experiments and analysis revealed a refractive index resolution of 10-5 RIU. The results were correlated with simulations to establish the physical origin of the change in the fundamental mode and higher-order modes due to the refractive index and thickness of analyte. As a demonstration of an application and to test the limits of sensing, the substrates were used to image the surface functionalization using 2-nm-thick 11-mercaptoundecanoic acid and immobilization of 7-nm-thick mouse anti-human IgG antibody. In biological systems, where a priori knowledge about a process step is available, where accurate chemical composition testing is not necessary or possible, the presented method could be used to study the surface changes using a label-free sensing mechanism.

Investigations of the Optical Properties of GaNAs Alloys by First-Principle.

PubMed

Borovac, Damir; Tan, Chee-Keong; Tansu, Nelson

2017-12-11

We present a Density Functional Theory (DFT) analysis of the optical properties of dilute-As GaN 1-x As x alloys with arsenic (As) content ranging from 0% up to 12.5%. The real and imaginary parts of the dielectric function are investigated, and the results are compared to experimental and theoretical values for GaN. The analysis extends to present the complex refractive index and the normal-incidence reflectivity. The refractive index difference between GaN and GaNAs alloys can be engineered to be up to ~0.35 in the visible regime by inserting relatively low amounts of As-content into the GaN system. Thus, the analysis elucidates on the birefringence of the dilute-As GaNAs alloys and comparison to other experimentally characterized III-nitride systems is drawn. Our findings indicate the potential of GaNAs alloys for III-nitride based waveguide and photonic circuit design applications.

Lidar performance analysis

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Spiers, Gary D.

1994-01-01

Section 1 details the theory used to build the lidar model, provides results of using the model to evaluate AEOLUS design instrument designs, and provides snapshots of the visual appearance of the coded model. Appendix A contains a Fortran program to calculate various forms of the refractive index structure function. This program was used to determine the refractive index structure function used in the main lidar simulation code. Appendix B contains a memo on the optimization of the lidar telescope geometry for a line-scan geometry. Appendix C contains the code for the main lidar simulation and brief instruction on running the code. Appendix D contains a Fortran code to calculate the maximum permissible exposure for the eye from the ANSI Z136.1-1992 eye safety standards. Appendix E contains a paper on the eye safety analysis of a space-based coherent lidar presented at the 7th Coherent Laser Radar Applications and Technology Conference, Paris, France, 19-23 July 1993.

Low-loss negative index metamaterials for X, Ku, and K microwave bands

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lee, David A.; Vedral, L. James; Smith, David A.

2015-04-15

Low-loss, negative-index of refraction metamaterials were designed and tested for X, Ku, and K microwave frequency bands. An S-shaped, split-ring resonator was used as a unit cell to design homogeneous slabs of negative-index metamaterials. Then, the slabs of metamaterials were cut unto prisms to measure experimentally the negative index of refraction of a plane electromagnetic wave. Theoretical simulations using High-Frequency Structural Simulator, a finite element equation solver, were in good agreement with experimental measurements. The negative index of refraction was retrieved from the angle- and frequency-dependence of the transmitted intensity of the microwave beam through the metamaterial prism and comparedmore » well to simulations; in addition, near-field electromagnetic intensity mapping was conducted with an infrared camera, and there was also a good match with the simulations for expected frequency ranges for the negative index of refraction.« less

Highly Sensitive Refractive Index Sensor Based on Adiabatically Tapered Microfiber Long Period Gratings

PubMed Central

Ji, Wen Bin; Tjin, Swee Chuan; Lin, Bo; Ng, Choong Leng

2013-01-01

We demonstrate a refractive index sensor based on a long period grating (LPG) inscribed in a special photosensitive microfiber with double-clad profile. The fiber is tapered gradually enough to ensure the adiabaticity of the fiber taper. In other words, the resulting insertion loss is sufficiently small. The boron and germanium co-doped inner cladding makes it suitable for inscribing gratings into its tapered form. The manner of wavelength shift for refractive indices (RIs) differs from conventional LPG, and the refractive index detection limit is 1.67 × 10−5. PMID:24141267

Highly sensitive refractive index sensor based on adiabatically tapered microfiber long period gratings.

PubMed

Ji, Wen Bin; Tjin, Swee Chuan; Lin, Bo; Ng, Choong Leng

2013-10-17

We demonstrate a refractive index sensor based on a long period grating (LPG) inscribed in a special photosensitive microfiber with double-clad profile. The fiber is tapered gradually enough to ensure the adiabaticity of the fiber taper. In other words, the resulting insertion loss is sufficiently small. The boron and germanium co-doped inner cladding makes it suitable for inscribing gratings into its tapered form. The manner of wavelength shift for refractive indices (RIs) differs from conventional LPG, and the refractive index detection limit is 1.67 × 10⁻⁵.

Refractive index-based detection of gradient elution liquid chromatography using chip-integrated microring resonator arrays.

PubMed

Wade, James H; Bailey, Ryan C

2014-01-07

Refractive index-based sensors offer attractive characteristics as nondestructive and universal detectors for liquid chromatographic separations, but a small dynamic range and sensitivity to minor thermal perturbations limit the utility of commercial RI detectors for many potential applications, especially those requiring the use of gradient elutions. As such, RI detectors find use almost exclusively in sample abundant, isocratic separations when interfaced with high-performance liquid chromatography. Silicon photonic microring resonators are refractive index-sensitive optical devices that feature good sensitivity and tremendous dynamic range. The large dynamic range of microring resonators allows the sensors to function across a wide spectrum of refractive indices, such as that encountered when moving from an aqueous to organic mobile phase during a gradient elution, a key analytical advantage not supported in commercial RI detectors. Microrings are easily configured into sensor arrays, and chip-integrated control microrings enable real-time corrections of thermal drift. Thermal controls allow for analyses at any temperature and, in the absence of rigorous temperature control, obviates extended detector equilibration wait times. Herein, proof of concept isocratic and gradient elution separations were performed using well-characterized model analytes (e.g., caffeine, ibuprofen) in both neat buffer and more complex sample matrices. These experiments demonstrate the ability of microring arrays to perform isocratic and gradient elutions under ambient conditions, avoiding two major limitations of commercial RI-based detectors and maintaining comparable bulk RI sensitivity. Further benefit may be realized in the future through selective surface functionalization to impart degrees of postcolumn (bio)molecular specificity at the detection phase of a separation. The chip-based and microscale nature of microring resonators also make it an attractive potential detection technology that could be integrated within lab-on-a-chip and microfluidic separation devices.

[Measurement and analysis on complex refraction indices of pear pollen in infrared band].

PubMed

Li, Le; Hu, Yi-hua; Gu, You-lin; Chen, Wei; Zhao, Yi-zheng; Chen, Shan-jing

2015-01-01

Pollen is an important part of bioaerosols, and its complex refractive index is a crucial parameter for study on optical characteristics and detection, identification of bioaerosols. The reflection spectra of pear pollen within the 2. 5 - 15µm waveband were measured by squash method. Based on the measured data, the complex refractive index of pear pollen within the wave-band of 2. 5 to 15 µm was calculated by using Kramers-Kroning (K-K) relation, and calculation deviation about incident angle and different reflectivities at high and low frequencies.were analyzed. The results indicate that 18 degrees angle of incidence and different reflectivities at high and low frequencies have little effect on the results, and it is practicable to calculate the complex refractive index of pollen based on its reflection spectral data. The data of complex refractive index of pollen have some reference value for optical characteristics of pollen, detection and identification of bioaerosols.

Qualitative identification of food materials by complex refractive index mapping in the terahertz range.

PubMed

Shin, Hee Jun; Choi, Sung-Wook; Ok, Gyeongsik

2018-04-15

We investigated the feasibility of qualitative food analysis using complex refractive index mapping of food materials in the terahertz (THz) frequency range. We studied optical properties such as the refractive index and absorption coefficient of food materials, including insects as foreign substances, from 0.2 to 1.3 THz. Although some food materials had a complex composition, their refractive indices were approximated with effective medium values, and therefore, they could be discriminated on the complex refractive index map. To demonstrate food quality inspection with THz imaging, we obtained THz reflective images and time-of-flight imaging of hidden defects in a sugar and milk powder matrix by using time domain THz pulses. Our results indicate that foreign substances can be clearly classified and detected according to the optical parameters of the foods and insects by using THz pulses. Copyright © 2017. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

Real-Time and In-Flow Sensing Using a High Sensitivity Porous Silicon Microcavity-Based Sensor.

PubMed

Caroselli, Raffaele; Martín Sánchez, David; Ponce Alcántara, Salvador; Prats Quilez, Francisco; Torrijos Morán, Luis; García-Rupérez, Jaime

2017-12-05

Porous silicon seems to be an appropriate material platform for the development of high-sensitivity and low-cost optical sensors, as their porous nature increases the interaction with the target substances, and their fabrication process is very simple and inexpensive. In this paper, we present the experimental development of a porous silicon microcavity sensor and its use for real-time in-flow sensing application. A high-sensitivity configuration was designed and then fabricated, by electrochemically etching a silicon wafer. Refractive index sensing experiments were realized by flowing several dilutions with decreasing refractive indices, and measuring the spectral shift in real-time. The porous silicon microcavity sensor showed a very linear response over a wide refractive index range, with a sensitivity around 1000 nm/refractive index unit (RIU), which allowed us to directly detect refractive index variations in the 10 -7 RIU range.

Measuring Variable Refractive Indices Using Digital Photos

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lombardi, S.; Monroy, G.; Testa, I.; Sassi, E.

2010-01-01

A new procedure for performing quantitative measurements in teaching optics is presented. Application of the procedure to accurately measure the rate of change of the variable refractive index of a water-denatured alcohol mixture is described. The procedure can also be usefully exploited for measuring the constant refractive index of distilled…

Temperature-Dependent Refractive Index of Cleartran® ZnS to Cryogenic Temperatures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leviton, Doug; Frey, Brad

2013-01-01

First, let's talk about the CHARMS facility at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center: Cryogenic, High-Accuracy Refraction Measuring System (CHARMS); design features for highest accuracy and precision; technologies we rely on; data products and examples; optical materials for which we've measured cryogenic refractive index.

Measurement of Refractive Index Gradients by Deflection of a Laser Beam

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Barnard, A. J.; Ahlborn, B.

1975-01-01

In this simple experiment for an undergraduate laboratory a laser beam is passed through the mixing zone of two liquids with different refractive indices. The spatial variation of the refractive index, at different times during the mixing, can be determined from the observed deflection of the beam. (Author)

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Al-Robaee, M.S.; Krishna, M.G.; Rao, K.N.

Single layer films of CeO{sub 2} have been deposited both by conventional electron beam evaporation and ion assisted deposition with oxygen and argon ions. A broad beam Kaufman ion source (3 cm diam) has been used to generate the ions. A systematic study has been made on optical properties such as refractive index, extinction coefficient and inhomogeneity of the films as a function of: (1) oxygen partial pressure in the range 1{times}10{sup {minus}4} to 1{times}10{sup {minus}5} mbar. (2) Incidence of oxygen ions with energy in the range 300--700 eV and current density in the range 50--220 {mu}A/cm{sup 2}. (3) Incidencemore » of mixed argon and oxygen ions of different ratios. The refractive index of the films deposited under the influence of ion bombardment showed higher indices than the conventionally evaporated films. The maximum index obtained with an oxygen ion bombardment was 2.3 at an ion energy of 600 eV and current density of 220 {mu}A/cm{sup 2}. The bombardment of the films with a mixed argon--oxygen (25% Ar) ion beam of the same energy and current density was found to further increase the refractive index. The extinction coefficient in both cases was negligible.« less

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Prakash, Deo; Shaaban, E.R., E-mail: esam_ramadan2008@yahoo.com; Shapaan, M.

Highlights: • Combined experimental and theoretical researches on ZnSe Thin Films. • The film thickness and refractive index were determined using envelope method. • The absorption coefficient and the energy gap were calculated. • Dispersion parameters were determined using Wemple-DiDomenico relation. • The third order susceptibility and nonlinear refractive index were calculated. - Abstract: Zinc selenide (ZnSe) thin films with different thicknesses were evaporated onto glass substrates using the thermal evaporation technique. X-ray diffraction analysis confirmed that both the film and powder have cubic zinc-blende structure. The fundamental optical parameters like absorption coefficient, extinction coefficient and band gap were evaluatedmore » in transparent region of transmittance and reflectance spectrum. The optical transition of the films was found to be allowed, where the energy gap increased from 2.576 to 2.702 eV with increasing film thickness. Also, the refractive index value increase with increasing film thickness. The refractive indices evaluated through envelope method were extrapolated by Cauchy dispersion relationship over the whole spectra range. Additionally, the dispersion of refractive index was determined in terms of Wemple-DiDomenico single oscillator model. Third order susceptibility and nonlinear refractive index were determined for different thickness of ZnSe thin films.« less

Tunable two-dimensional liquid gradient refractive index (L-GRIN) lens for variable light focusing.

PubMed

Huang, Hua; Mao, Xiaole; Lin, Sz-Chin Steven; Kiraly, Brian; Huang, Yiping; Huang, Tony Jun

2010-09-21

We report a two-dimensional (2D) tunable liquid gradient refractive index (L-GRIN) lens for variable focusing of light in the out-of-plane direction. This lens focuses a light beam through a liquid medium with a 2D hyperbolic secant (HS) refractive index gradient. The refractive index gradient is established in a microfluidic chamber through the diffusion between two fluids with different refractive indices, i.e. CaCl(2) solution and deionized (DI) water. The 2D HS refractive index profile and subsequently the focal length of the L-GRIN lens can be tuned by changing the ratio of the flow rates of the CaCl(2) solution and DI water. The focusing effect is experimentally characterized through side-view and top-view image analysis, and the experimental data match well with the results from ray-tracing optical simulations. Advantages of the 2D L-GRIN lens include simple device fabrication procedure, low fluid consumption rate, convenient lens-tuning mechanism, and compatibility with existing microfluidic devices. We expect that with further optimizations, this 2D L-GRIN lens can be used in many optics-based lab-on-a-chip applications.

Chromatic Properties of Index of Refraction Gradients in Glass.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ryan-Howard, Danette Patrice

The chromatic properties of index of refraction gradients have been predicted theoretically and verified experimentally. The use of these materials in the design of color corrected optical systems has been investigated and confirmed by the evaluation of two fabricated lenses. A model for the chromatic properties of gradient index materials has been developed. The index of refraction is calculated based on the composition of the material. Since the index of refraction and the conventional Abbe number change as a function of the composition of the glass, a gradient Abbe number and a partial dispersion are defined. Analysis of combinations of ion exchange pairs and glasses result in a wide range of gradient Abbe numbers and partial dispersions. These ranges can be further extended by using glasses which contain more than one exchange ion or by using mixed salt baths. The chromatic properties were measured with a multiple wavelength A.C. interferometer. The gradient Abbe numbers and partial dispersions for a number of samples were calculated. Evaluation of the samples showed that the index and dispersion data correlated well with that predicted by the model. Thin lens formulae for the paraxial axial color and secondary spectrum of a radial gradient singlet with curves were examined. The design of a single element 10x microscope objective verified the applicability of these formulae. The design of a two element 40x microscope objective showed that a six element diffraction limited 40x objective can be replaced with a two element system composed of one homogeneous lens and one gradient lens without sacrificing either monochromatic performance or color correction. A previously fabricated axial gradient collimator and a fabricated Wood element were evaluated. Correlation of the directly measured quantities, paraxial axial color, secondary spectrum and spherochromatism with the values predicted by the model verified that the predicted superior performance of gradient-index lenses can be obtained.

Complex Refractive Index of Ammonium Nitrate in the 2-20 micron Spectral Range

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jarzembski, Maurice A.; Norman, Mark L.; Fuller, Kirk A.; Srivastava, Vandana; Cutten, Dean R.

2002-01-01

Using high resolution Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) absorbance/transmittance spectral data for ammonium sulfate (AMS), calcium carbonate (CAC) and ammonium nitrate (AMN), comparisons were made with previously published complex refractive indices data for AMS and CAC to infer experimental parameters to determine the imaginary refractive index for AMN in the infrared wavelength range from 2 to 20 microns. Kramers-Kronig mathematical relations were applied to calculate the real refractive index for the three compositions. Excellent agreement for AMS and CAC with the published values was found, validating the complex refractive indices obtained for AMN. Backscatter calculations using a lognormal size distribution for AMS, AMN, and CAC aerosols were performed to show differences in their backscattered spectra.

The effect of UV irradiation on the refractive index modulation in photo-thermo-refractive glasses: Mechanisms and application

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chernakov, Dmitry I.; Sidorov, Alexander I.; Stolyarchuk, Maxim V.; Kozlova, Darya A.; Krykova, Victoria A.; Nikonorov, Nikolay V.

2018-02-01

It is shown experimentally that in photo-thermo-refractive glasses the transformation of charged silver subnanosized molecular clusters to neutral state by UV irradiation results in the increase of glass refractive index. The increment of the refractive index reaches Δn = 0.76·10-4. Computer simulation has shown that the polarizability of neutral molecular clusters is by 20-40% larger than of charged ones. The reason of this is the increase of electron density and volume of electron density surfaces during the transformation of molecular cluster to the neutral state. The transition molecular cluster from the ground state to the excited state also results in the increase of its polarizability.

Phase and group refractive indices of air calculation by fitting of phase difference measured using a combination of laser and low-coherence interferometry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pikálek, Tomáš; Šarbort, Martin; Číp, Ondřej; Pham, Minh Tuan; Lešundák, Adam; Pravdová, Lenka; Buchta, Zdeněk.

2017-06-01

The air refractive index is an important parameter in interferometric length measurements, since it substantially affects the measurement accuracy. We present a refractive index of air measurement method based on monitoring the phase difference between the ambient air and vacuum inside a permanently evacuated double-spaced cell. The cell is placed in one arm of the Michelson interferometer equipped with two light sources—red LED and HeNe laser, while the low-coherence and laser interference signals are measured separately. Both phase and group refractive indices of air can be calculated from the measured signals. The method was experimentally verified by comparing the obtained refractive index values with two different techniques.

Refractive power and biometric properties of the nonhuman primate isolated crystalline lens.

PubMed

Borja, David; Manns, Fabrice; Ho, Arthur; Ziebarth, Noel M; Acosta, Ana Carolina; Arrieta-Quintera, Esdras; Augusteyn, Robert C; Parel, Jean-Marie

2010-04-01

Purpose. To characterize the age dependence of shape, refractive power, and refractive index of isolated lenses from nonhuman primates. Methods. Measurements were performed on ex vivo lenses from cynomolgus monkeys (cyno: n = 120; age, 2.7-14.3 years), rhesus monkeys (n = 61; age, 0.7-13.3 years), and hamadryas baboons (baboon: n = 16; age, 1.7-27.3 years). Lens thickness, diameter, and surface curvatures were measured with an optical comparator. Lens refractive power was measured with a custom optical system based on the Scheiner principle. The refractive contributions of the gradient, the surfaces, and the equivalent refractive index were calculated with optical ray-tracing software. The age dependence of the optical and biometric parameters was assessed. Results. Over the measured age range isolated lens thickness decreased (baboon: -0.04, cyno: -0.05, and rhesus: -0.06 mm/y) and equatorial diameter increased (logarithmically for the baboon and rhesus, and linearly for cyno: 0.07 mm/y). The isolated lens surfaces flattened and the corresponding refractive power from the surfaces decreased with age (-0.33, -0.48, and -0.68 D/y). The isolated lens equivalent refractive index decreased (only significant for the baboon, -0.001 D/y), and as a result the total isolated lens refractive power decreased with age (baboon: -1.26, cyno: -0.97, and rhesus: -1.76 D/y). Conclusions. The age-dependent trends in the optical and biometric properties, growth, and aging, of nonhuman primate lenses are similar to those of the pre-presbyopic human lens. As the lens ages, the decrease in refractive contributions from the gradient refractive index causes a rapid age-dependent decrease in maximally accommodated lens refractive power.

Measurement of the refractive index of air in a low-pressure regime and the applicability of traditional empirical formulae

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Schödel, René; Walkov, Alexander; Voigt, Michael; Bartl, Guido

2018-06-01

The refractive index of air is a major limiting factor in length measurements by interferometry, which are mostly performed under atmospheric conditions. Therefore, especially in the last century, measurement and description of the air refractive index was a key point in order to achieve accuracy in the realisation of the length by interferometry. Nevertheless, interferometric length measurements performed in vacuum are much more accurate since the wavelength of the light is not affected by the air refractive index. However, compared with thermal conditions in air, in high vacuum heat conduction is missing. In such a situation, dependent on the radiative thermal equilibrium, a temperature distribution can be very inhomogeneous. Using a so-called contact gas instead of high vacuum is a very effective way to enable heat conduction on nearly the same level as under atmospheric pressure conditions whereby keeping the effect of the air refractive index on a small level. As physics predicts, and as we have demonstrated previously, helium seems like the optimal contact gas because of its large heat conduction and its refractive index that can be calculated from precisely known parameters. On the other hand, helium gas situated in a vacuum chamber could easily be contaminated, e.g. by air leakage from outside. Above the boiling point of oxygen (‑183 °C) it is therefore beneficial to use dry air as a contact gas. In such an approach, the air refractive index could be calculated based on measured quantities for pressure and temperature. However, existing formulas for the air refractive index are not valid in the low-pressure regime. Although it seems reasonable that the refractivity (n  ‑  1) of dry air simply downscales with the pressure, to our knowledge there is no experimental evidence for the applicability of any empirical formula. This evidence is given in the present paper which reports on highly accurate measurements of the air refractive index for the wavelengths 532 nm, 633 nm and 780 nm in the low-pressure regime from 0 Pa to 1300 Pa. In our approach, using a vacuum cell, n  ‑  1 is obtained from the comparison of optical path lengths in vacuum and air along the same path by imaging interferometry. These measured values are compared with the ones obtained from Bönsch’s formula. An agreement of  ±10‑9 is found in the low-pressure regime. Accordingly, this formula could be applied for the accurate determination of the refractive index of dry air even at low pressures, provided that the pressure is measured with high accuracy.

Modeling photopolymers for holographic data storage applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sheridan, John T.; Kelly, John V.; Gleeson, Michael R.; Close, Ciara E.

2006-09-01

The Nonlocal Polymerization Driven Diffusion model, NPDD, is can be used to describe holographic grating formation in Acrylamide-based photopolymer. The free radical chain polymerization process results in polymer being generated nonlocal both in space and time to the point of chain initiation. Temporal nonlocality can be used to describepost exposure dark effects. Nonlinear response and the effects of dye bleaching have been examined. Both primary and bimolecular chain termination mechanisms have been included and examined. Recently 3-D, and inhibition effects have also been included. In this paper we review of our recent work. It is shown that temporal effects become most notable for short exposres and the inclusion of the nonlocal temporal response function is shown to be necessary to accurately describe the process. In particular, brief post exposure self-amplification of the refractive index modulation is noted. This is attributed to continued chain growth for a brief period after exposure. Following this a slight decay in the grating amplitude also occurs. This we believe is due to the continued diffusion of monomer after exposure. Since the sinusoidal recording pattern generates a monomer concentration gradient during the recording process monomer diffusion occurs both during and after exposure. The evolution of the refractive index modulation is determined by the respective refractive index values of the recording material components. From independent measurements it is noted that the refractive index value of the monomer is slightly less than that of the background material. Therefore as monomer diffuses back into the dark regions, a reduction in overall refractive index modulation occurs. Volume changes occurring within the material also affect the nature of grating evolution. To model these effects we employ a free volume concept. Due to the fact that the covalent single carbon bond in the polymer is up to 50% shorter than the van der Waals bond in the liquid monomer state, free volume is created when monomer is converted to polymer. For each bond conversion we assume a hole is generated which then collapses at some characteristic rate constant. The Lorentz-Lorenz relation is used to determine the overall evolution refractive index modulation and the corresponding diffraction efficiency of the resulting grating is calculated using Rigorous Coupled Wave Analysis (RCWA). The Lorentz-Lorenz relation is used to determine the overall evolution refractive index modulation and the corresponding diffraction efficiency of the resulting grating is calculated using Rigorous Coupled Wave Analysis (RCWA). Inhibition is typically observed at the start of grating growth during which the formation of polymer chains is suppressed. In this paper experiments are reported, carried out with the specific aim of understanding of these processes. The results support our description of the inhibition process in an PVA/Acrylamide based photopolymer and can be used to predict behaviour under certain conditions.

Demonstration of Simplified Field Test Methods for the Measurement of Diesel Particulate Matter (PM) from Military Diesel Engines

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-07-01

EPA emission standards, the EPA has also specified the measurement methods . According to EPA, the most accurate and precise method of determining ...function of particle size and refractive index . If particle size distributions and refractive indices in diesel exhaust strongly depend on the...to correct the bias of the raw SFTM data and align the data with the values determined by the federal reference method . Thus, to use these methods a

Adjustable internal structure for reconstructing gradient index profile of crystalline lens.

PubMed

Bahrami, Mehdi; Goncharov, Alexander V; Pierscionek, Barbara K

2014-03-01

Employing advanced technologies in studying the crystalline lens of the eye has improved our understanding of the refractive index gradient of the lens. Reconstructing and studying such a complex structure requires models with adaptable internal geometry that can be altered to simulate geometrical and optical changes of the lens with aging. In this Letter, we introduce an optically well-defined, geometrical structure for modeling the gradient refractive index profile of the crystalline lens with the advantage of an adjustable internal structure that is not available with existing models. The refractive index profile assigned to this rotationally symmetric geometry is calculated numerically, yet it is shown that this does not limit the model. The study provides a basis for developing lens models with sophisticated external and internal structures without the need for analytical solutions to calculate refractive index profiles.

Extracting concentrated guided light.

PubMed

Ries, H; Segal, A; Karni, J

1997-05-01

The maximum concentration of radiation is proportional to the square of the refractive index of the medium in which it propagates. A medium with a high refractive index can also serve as a lightguide for concentrated radiation. However, if concentrated radiation is extracted from one medium, with a high refractive index, to another, whose index is lower (e.g., from fused silica into air), part of the radiation may be lost because of the total internal reflection at the interface. We present polygonal shapes suitable for efficient extraction of the concentrated radiation in a controllable way, without increasing the cross-section area (or diameter) of the lightguide. It is shown analytically and experimentally that the use of a secondary concentrator, followed by such a light extractor, both having a high refractive index, can provide considerably more power to a solar receiver with a specific aperture.

Optical coatings of variable refractive index and high laser-resistance from physical-vapor-deposited perfluorinated amorphous polymer

DOEpatents

Chow, Robert; Loomis, Gary E.; Thomas, Ian M.

1999-01-01

Variable index optical single-layers, optical multilayer, and laser-resistant coatings were made from a perfluorinated amorphous polymer material by physical vapor deposition. This was accomplished by physically vapor depositing a polymer material, such as bulk Teflon AF2400, for example, to form thin layers that have a very low refractive index (.about.1.10-1.31) and are highly transparent from the ultra-violet through the near infrared regime, and maintain the low refractive index of the bulk material. The refractive index can be varied by simply varying one process parameter, either the deposition rate or the substrate temperature. The thus forming coatings may be utilized in anti-reflectors and graded anti-reflection coatings, as well as in optical layers for laser-resistant coatings at optical wavelengths of less than about 2000 nm.

Direct-patterned optical waveguides on amorphous silicon films

DOEpatents

Vernon, Steve; Bond, Tiziana C.; Bond, Steven W.; Pocha, Michael D.; Hau-Riege, Stefan

2005-08-02

An optical waveguide structure is formed by embedding a core material within a medium of lower refractive index, i.e. the cladding. The optical index of refraction of amorphous silicon (a-Si) and polycrystalline silicon (p-Si), in the wavelength range between about 1.2 and about 1.6 micrometers, differ by up to about 20%, with the amorphous phase having the larger index. Spatially selective laser crystallization of amorphous silicon provides a mechanism for controlling the spatial variation of the refractive index and for surrounding the amorphous regions with crystalline material. In cases where an amorphous silicon film is interposed between layers of low refractive index, for example, a structure comprised of a SiO.sub.2 substrate, a Si film and an SiO.sub.2 film, the formation of guided wave structures is particularly simple.

New infrared transmitting material via inverse vulcanization of elemental sulfur to prepare high refractive index polymers.

PubMed

Griebel, Jared J; Namnabat, Soha; Kim, Eui Tae; Himmelhuber, Roland; Moronta, Dominic H; Chung, Woo Jin; Simmonds, Adam G; Kim, Kyung-Jo; van der Laan, John; Nguyen, Ngoc A; Dereniak, Eustace L; Mackay, Michael E; Char, Kookheon; Glass, Richard S; Norwood, Robert A; Pyun, Jeffrey

2014-05-21

Polymers for IR imaging: The preparation of high refractive index polymers (n = 1.75 to 1.86) via the inverse vulcanization of elemental sulfur is reported. High quality imaging in the near (1.5 μm) and mid-IR (3-5 μm) regions using high refractive index polymeric lenses from these sulfur materials was demonstrated. © 2014 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Quality control analytical methods: refractive index.

PubMed

Allen, Loyd V

2015-01-01

There are numerous analytical methods that can be utilized in a compounding pharmacy for a quality-assurance program. Since the index of refraction of a liquid/solution is a physical constant, it can be used to assist in identification of a substance, establish its purity, and, in some instances, to determine the concentration of an analyte in solution. This article serves as an introduction to refractive index and some applications of its use in a compounding program.

Measuring refractive index and volume of liquid under high pressure with optical coherence tomography and light microscopy.

PubMed

Wang, Donglin; Yang, Kun; Zhou, Yin

2016-03-20

Measuring the refractive index and volume of liquid under high pressure simultaneously is a big challenge. This paper proposed an alternative solution by combing optical coherence tomography with microscopy. An experiment for a feasibility study was carried out on polydimethylsiloxane liquid in a diamond anvil cell. The refractive index of the sample increased dramatically with pressure loaded, and the curve of pressure volume was also obtained.

Method of determining dispersion dependence of refractive index of nanospheres building opals

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kępińska, Mirosława; Starczewska, Anna; Duka, Piotr

2017-11-01

The method of determining dispersion dependence of refractive index of nanospheres building opals is presented. In this method basing on angular dependences of the spectral positions of Bragg diffraction minima on transmission spectra for opal series of known spheres diameter, the spectrum of effective refractive index for opals and then refractive index for material building opal's spheres is determined. The described procedure is used for determination of neff(λ) for opals and nsph(λ) for material which spheres building investigated opals are made of. The obtained results are compared with literature data of nSiO2(λ) considered in the analysis and interpretation of extremes related to the light diffraction at (hkl) SiO2 opal planes.

Surface relief and refractive index gratings patterned in chalcogenide glasses and studied by off-axis digital holography.

PubMed

Cazac, V; Meshalkin, A; Achimova, E; Abashkin, V; Katkovnik, V; Shevkunov, I; Claus, D; Pedrini, G

2018-01-20

Surface relief gratings and refractive index gratings are formed by direct holographic recording in amorphous chalcogenide nanomultilayer structures As 2 S 3 -Se and thin films As 2 S 3 . The evolution of the grating parameters, such as the modulation of refractive index and relief depth in dependence of the holographic exposure, is investigated. Off-axis digital holographic microscopy is applied for the measurement of the photoinduced phase gratings. For the high-accuracy reconstruction of the wavefront (amplitude and phase) transmitted by the fabricated gratings, we used a computational technique based on the sparse modeling of phase and amplitude. Both topography and refractive index maps of recorded gratings are revealed. Their separated contribution in diffraction efficiency is estimated.

Temperature and refractive index measurement based on a coating-enhanced dual-microspheric fiber sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ju, Yao; Ning, Shougui; Sun, Huijin; Mo, Jun; Yang, Chao; Feng, Guoying; Zhou, Hao; Zhou, Shouhuan

2018-07-01

We propose and demonstrate a coating-enhanced dual-microspheric structure fiber sensor that measures temperature and refractive index simultaneously. The claddings of the two microspheric structured fibers are spliced together and the ends of the fibers are coated with a layer of gold film to increase reflection, thereby forming a dual-microspheric structure sensor head. Our experimental results show that the temperature sensitivity and the refractive index can reach 65.77 pm °C‑1 and  ‑19.7879 nm RIU‑1, respectively. Compared with the uncoated sensor, the refractive index sensitivity is significantly improved by the gold film. This work suggests a low-cost, high-resolution and convenient fiber-based method to achieve multifunctional sensing applications.

Concentration and temperature dependence of the refractive index of ethanol-water mixtures: influence of intermolecular interactions.

PubMed

Riobóo, R J; Philipp, M; Ramos, M A; Krüger, J K

2009-09-01

The temperature and concentration dependence of the refractive index, nD(x, T), in ethanol-water mixtures agrees with previous data in the ethanol-rich concentration range. The refractive index versus concentration x determined at 20 degrees C shows the expected maximum at about 41 mol% water (22 mass% water). The temperature derivative of the refractive index, dnD/dT, shows anomalies at lower water concentrations at about 10 mol% water but no anomaly at 41 mol% water. Both anomalies are related to intermolecular interactions, the one in nD seems to be due to molecular segregation and cluster formation while the origin of the second one in dnD/dT is still not clear.

Estimation of the R134a gas refractive index for use as a Cherenkov radiator, using a high energy charged particle beam

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Charitonidis, N.; Karyotakis, Y.; Gatignon, L.

2017-11-01

Gases with relatively high refractive index, n - 1 ≥ 500 ×10-6 at atmospheric pressure, giving a satisfactory photoelectron yield at relatively low pressures (≤ 5 bar) are rare. These gases are often the only practical solution for low momentum particle identification in conventional secondary beam lines. The refractive index of R134a, one of the most common gases available to the physics community, has never been measured or reported. In the present note, the results of a dedicated experiment to estimate the refractive index of R134a, using mixed hadron/electron beams in the range 0.5-10 GeV are presented.

Fiber optic refractive index monitor

DOEpatents

Weiss, Jonathan David

2002-01-01

A sensor for measuring the change in refractive index of a liquid uses the lowest critical angle of a normal fiber optic to achieve sensitivity when the index of the liquid is significantly less than the index of the fiber core. Another embodiment uses a liquid filled core to ensure that its index is approximately the same as the liquid being measured.

FIBER OPTICS: Ray invariants and wave equations for transverse modes in three-dimensional graded-index waveguides

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Voevodin, V. G.; Morozov, A. N.; Stepanov, V. E.

1992-09-01

A theory of the second ray invariant is proposed using the theory of plane Frenet curves. Its existence requires that the coordinate dependence of the refractive index in the waveguide cross section should satisfy the regularity condition: curves of equal refractive index differ only by an amount which can be obtained using an isotropic scaling transformation. The theoretical conclusions are illustrated using the example of waveguides having the generalized refractive index distribution n ( r ) = n [ (x/ a) + (y/ b)q].

A single-image method for x-ray refractive index CT.

PubMed

Mittone, A; Gasilov, S; Brun, E; Bravin, A; Coan, P

2015-05-07

X-ray refraction-based computer tomography imaging is a well-established method for nondestructive investigations of various objects. In order to perform the 3D reconstruction of the index of refraction, two or more raw computed tomography phase-contrast images are usually acquired and combined to retrieve the refraction map (i.e. differential phase) signal within the sample. We suggest an approximate method to extract the refraction signal, which uses a single raw phase-contrast image. This method, here applied to analyzer-based phase-contrast imaging, is employed to retrieve the index of refraction map of a biological sample. The achieved accuracy in distinguishing the different tissues is comparable with the non-approximated approach. The suggested procedure can be used for precise refraction computer tomography with the advantage of a reduction of at least a factor of two of both the acquisition time and the dose delivered to the sample with respect to any of the other algorithms in the literature.

Changes in the Refractive Index of the Stroma and Its Extrafibrillar Matrix When the Cornea Swells

PubMed Central

Meek, Keith M.; Dennis, Sally; Khan, Shukria

2003-01-01

The transparency of the corneal stroma is critically dependent on the hydration of the tissue; if the cornea swells, light scattering increases. Although this scattering has been ascribed to the disruption caused to the arrangement of the collagen fibrils, theory predicts that light scattering could increase if there is an increased mismatch in the refractive indices of the collagen fibrils and the material between them. The purpose of this article is to use Gladstone and Dale's law of mixtures to calculate volume fractions for a number of different constituents in the stroma, and use these to show how the refractive indices of the stroma and its constituent extrafibrillar material would be expected to change as more solvent enters the tissue. Our calculations predict that solvent entering the extrafibrillar space causes a reduction in its refractive index, and hence a reduction in the overall refractive index of the bovine stroma according to the equation n′s = 1.335 + 0.04/(0.22 + 0.24 H′), where n′s is the refractive index and H′ is the hydration of the swollen stroma. This expression is in reasonable agreement with our experimental measurements of refractive index versus hydration in bovine corneas. When the hydration of the stroma increases from H = 3.2 to H = 8.0, we predict that the ratio of the refractive index of the collagen fibrils to that of the material between them increases from 1.041 to 1.052. This change would be expected to make only a small contribution to the large increase in light scattering observed when the cornea swells to H = 8. PMID:14507686

Average value of the shape and direction factor in the equation of refractive index

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Tao

2017-10-01

The theoretical calculation of the refractive indices is of great significance for the developments of new optical materials. The calculation method of refractive index, which was deduced from the electron-cloud-conductor model, contains the shape and direction factor 〈g〉. 〈g〉 affects the electromagnetic-induction energy absorbed by the electron clouds, thereby influencing the refractive indices. It is not yet known how to calculate 〈g〉 value of non-spherical electron clouds. In this paper, 〈g〉 value is derived by imaginatively dividing the electron cloud into numerous little volume elements and then regrouping them. This paper proves that 〈g〉 = 2/3 when molecules’ spatial orientations distribute randomly. The calculations of the refractive indices of several substances validate this equation. This result will help to promote the application of the calculation method of refractive index.

CHARMS: The Cryogenic, High-Accuracy Refraction Measuring System

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Frey, Bradley; Leviton, Douglas

2004-01-01

The success of numerous upcoming NASA infrared (IR) missions will rely critically on accurate knowledge of the IR refractive indices of their constituent optical components at design operating temperatures. To satisfy the demand for such data, we have built a Cryogenic, High-Accuracy Refraction Measuring System (CHARMS), which, for typical 1R materials. can measure the index of refraction accurate to (+ or -) 5 x 10sup -3 . This versatile, one-of-a-kind facility can also measure refractive index over a wide range of wavelengths, from 0.105 um in the far-ultraviolet to 6 um in the IR, and over a wide range of temperatures, from 10 K to 100 degrees C, all with comparable accuracies. We first summarize the technical challenges we faced and engineering solutions we developed during the construction of CHARMS. Next we present our "first light," index of refraction data for fused silica and compare our data to previously published results.

Sequential Infiltration Synthesis for the Design of Low Refractive Index Surface Coatings with Controllable Thickness

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Berman, Diana; Guha, Supratik; Lee, Byeongdu

Control over refractive index and thickness of surface coatings is central to the design of low refraction films used in applications ranging from optical computing to antireflective coatings. Here, we introduce gas-phase sequential infiltration synthesis (SIS) as a robust, powerful and efficient approach to deposit conformal coatings with very low refractive indices. We demonstrate that the refractive indices of inorganic coatings can be efficiently tuned by the number of cycles used in the SIS process, composition and selective swelling of the of the polymer template. We show that the refractive index of Al 2O 3 can be lowered from 1.76more » down to 1.1 using this method. The thickness of the Al 2O 3 coating can be efficiently controlled by the swelling of the block copolymer template in ethanol at elevated temperature, thereby enabling deposition of both single-layer and graded-index broadband anti-reflective coatings. Using this technique, Fresnel reflections of glass can be reduced to as low as 0.1% under normal illumination over a broad spectral range.« less

Sequential Infiltration Synthesis for the Design of Low Refractive Index Surface Coatings with Controllable Thickness

DOE PAGES

Berman, Diana; Guha, Supratik; Lee, Byeongdu; ...

2017-01-31

Control over refractive index and thickness of surface coatings is central to the design of low refraction films used in applications ranging from optical computing to antireflective coatings. Here, we introduce gas-phase sequential infiltration synthesis (SIS) as a robust, powerful and efficient approach to deposit conformal coatings with very low refractive indices. We demonstrate that the refractive indices of inorganic coatings can be efficiently tuned by the number of cycles used in the SIS process, composition and selective swelling of the of the polymer template. We show that the refractive index of Al 2O 3 can be lowered from 1.76more » down to 1.1 using this method. The thickness of the Al 2O 3 coating can be efficiently controlled by the swelling of the block copolymer template in ethanol at elevated temperature, thereby enabling deposition of both single-layer and graded-index broadband anti-reflective coatings. Using this technique, Fresnel reflections of glass can be reduced to as low as 0.1% under normal illumination over a broad spectral range.« less

Sequential Infiltration Synthesis for the Design of Low Refractive Index Surface Coatings with Controllable Thickness

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Berman, Diana; Guha, Supratik; Lee, Byeongdu

Control over refractive index and thickness of surface coatings is central to the design of low refraction films used in applications ranging from optical computing to antireflective coatings. Here, we introduce gas-phase sequential infiltration synthesis (SIS) as a robust, powerful, and efficient approach to deposit conformal coatings with very low refractive indices. We demonstrate that the refractive indices of inorganic coatings can be efficiently tuned by the number of cycles used in the SIS process, composition, and selective swelling of the of the polymer template. We show that the refractive index of Al2O3 can be lowered from 1.76 down tomore » 1.1 using this method. The thickness of the Al2O3 coating can be efficiently controlled by the swelling of the block copolymer template in ethanol at elevated temperature, thereby enabling deposition of both single-layer and graded-index broadband antireflective coatings. Using this technique, Fresnel reflections of glass can be reduced to as low as 0.1% under normal illumination over a broad spectral range.« less