Oxygen Sensing by Photoluminescence Using Polymer Optical Fibers

This thesis is the culmination of research performed at the Danish Technical University (DTU) in the years 2017-2020 by the author, as part of the Ph.D. studies. The research was focused on the design and fabrication of polymer optical fiber (POF) sensors, primarily for oxygen. Central elements of the research have been various modification techniques (such at solvent etching) which can be performed on POFs, and how these can be leveraged in different sensor designs.

The ideal goal of the project was the fabrication of multi-point oxygen sensors, and so research into techniques and designs capable of reaching this was also carried out. Three main results were obtained during the project, the first of which was the application of Hansen Solubility Parameters (HSPs) for the selection of POF etching solvents.

Secondly, results on an all-polymer end-point sensor utilizing light harvesting antenna dyes for increased sensor brightness, were also achieved. Third and finally was the investigation of a design for an in-fiber annular cavity sensor, which may have potential for a future multi-point sensor. These results will all be presented as part of this thesis.

The work has been in conjunction with a project funded by the EU Maritime and Fisheries Fund, as well as the Danish Fisheries Agency, aimed at developing oxygen (multi-point) and cortisol fiber optic sensors for fish-farms. The project has been in collaboration with the consultancy company Pisco Group Aps, who have specialized in all aspects of aquaculture.