Use of Analytical Fluorescence with Fiber Optics

Abstract

The development of fiber-optic based sensors is of growing interest in analytical chemistry. The ability to produce miniature sensors that are immune to electrical interference, that do not require a reference electrode, and that can be operated remotely are attractive advantages of this technology. Fiber optics provide a mechanism for continuous optical monitoring of process, biological, or hazardous environments that previously were difficult or impossible to access. Fluorescence spectroscopy is particularly suited for fiber optic sensing because of its sensitivity, selectivity, and versatility. In recent years, a number of sensing configurations have been described that take advantage of either the intrinsic fluorescence of the analyte or incorporate a fluorescent reagent at or near the sensor tip. Analyte concentrations can be determined from the enhancement, quenching, changing lifetime, or colorimetric modulation of the induced reagent fluorescence. These individual sensors integrate technology of fiber optics, chemistry, optics, and spectroscopy into their designs. The operating principles and optical configurations of typical fiber optic fluorescent sensors are described.