Waveguide parameter for waveguide-binding fiber optic biosensors

The use of fiber-optic biosensors based on evanescent wave-excited fluorescence of labeled biomolecules bound to the surface of the waveguide (waveguide-binding sensors) for the detection of a variety of chemical analytes is discussed. Factors which influence the sensitivity of such devices are explored. One important factor is the waveguide parameter, or V number on the level of fluorescence detected was measured, and the implications of the result are discussed