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Abstract Silicon photonic index sensors have received significant attention for label-free bio and gas-sensing applications, offering cost-effective and scalable solutions. Here, we introduce an ultra-compact silicon photonic refractive index sensor that leverages zero-crosstalk singularity responses enabled by subwavelength gratings. The subwavelength gratings are precisely engineered to achieve an anisotropic perturbation-led zero-crosstalk, resulting in a single transmission dip singularity in the spectrum that is independent of device length. The sensor is optimized for the transverse magnetic mode operation, where the subwavelength gratings are arranged perpendicular to the propagation direction to support a leaky-like mode and maximize the evanescent field interaction with the analyte space. Experimental results demonstrate a high wavelength sensitivity of − 410 nm/RIU and an intensity sensitivity of 395 dB/RIU, with a compact device footprint of approximately 82.8 μm2. Distinct from other resonant and interferometric sensors, our approach provides an FSR-free single-dip spectral response on a small device footprint, overcoming common challenges faced by traditional sensors, such as signal/phase ambiguity, sensitivity fading, limited detection range, and the necessity for large device footprints. This makes our sensor ideal for simplified intensity interrogation. The proposed sensor holds promise for a range of on-chip refractive index sensing applications, from gas to biochemical detection, representing a significant step towards efficient and miniaturized photonic sensing solutions. Graphical Abstract
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This content will become publicly available on April 1, 2026
A study of crosstalk in quantum degeneracy coincidence measurements
For a continuous beam, particles that arrive at random times show a flat second-order correlation function, g(2), as measured by a flat coincidence spectrum. A reduction in the likelihood for two particles in such a continuous beam to arrive at the same time is called antibunching, observed as a dip in the otherwise flat coincidence spectrum. For a pulsed beam, the coincidence spectrum consists of a series of equal height peaks, where the “dip” manifests as a reduction in the height of the zero-delay time peak. For electrons, such a dip is an experimental signature of Coulomb repulsion and Pauli pressure. This paper discusses another effect that can produce a similar signature but that does not originate from the properties of the physical system under scrutiny. Instead, the detectors and electronics used to measure those coincidences suffer significantly even from weak crosstalk. A simple model that explains our experimental observations is given. Furthermore, we provide an experimental approach to correct this type of crosstalk.
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- Award ID(s):
- 2207697
- PAR ID:
- 10599616
- Publisher / Repository:
- Reviews of Scientific Instruments
- Date Published:
- Journal Name:
- Review of Scientific Instruments
- Volume:
- 96
- Issue:
- 4
- ISSN:
- 0034-6748
- Format(s):
- Medium: X
- Sponsoring Org:
- National Science Foundation
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