Novel waveguide configuration for convenient and sensitive fluorescence and Raman measurements of liquids over optical fibers

Abstract

Fluorescence has been measured from a waveguide formed by a PTFE tube with an internal coating of a low-refractive-index amorphous fluoropolymer. The configuration is suited to taking measurements from liquids having a refractive index down to 1.32, including, in particular, aqueous solutions. The parameters which determine the optical collection efficiency have been mathematically modelled. We have produced waveguides up to 1m long, and with 0.955 mm and 0.445 mm internal radii, and measured a (fluorescence) collection enhancement factor of 3 from a 140 mm long, 0.955 mm internal radius waveguide. Work is continuing to increase the enhancement factor