Hyperspectral imaging and localized surface plasmon resonance for next-generation biosensor systems

Both incident angle and polarisation provided crucial insights for future system designs. Computational modelling provided understanding on how plasmonic modes are distributed within cavities in an interconnected gold nanostructure system.<br><br>To enhance functionality, a hyperspectral imaging system was developed to evaluate spectral imaging as a measurement tool. This system demonstrated strong potential for multiplexed sensing applications and successfully identified manufacturing and operational defects.

Initial filtering approaches highlighted the potential for removing these unwanted features and improving overall<br>measurement quality. A 62% reduction in the variability of the plasmonic response was observed when artefacts associated with fabrication of the plasmonic chip were removed. The filtering approaches showed how a consistent spatial response could be obtained through spectral imaging. <br><br>Building on these results, exploratory work focused on barriers to commercialising a complex hyperspectral system.

Investigations into reducing spectral resolution and increasing the full width at half maximum showed how instrumentation could be significantly simplified while maintaining performance. These results were used to guide the design of a new filter system. Comparative testing showed that a 6-filter multispectral system achieved comparable performance with both the hyperspectral system and the existing Causeway Sensors spectrometer system.<br><br>Overall, this work demonstrates how a design approach built on understanding plasmonic behaviour and sensing requirements can support the development of a scalable, commercial spectral imaging biosensor. <br><br><i>Thesis is embargoed until 31 July 2030.</i>