Enhanced Wavelength Selectivity in Molecular Dye Modified High-T_c Superconducting Detectors Using Mirror-Layer Structures

A new method for enhancing the wavelength selectivity and responsivity of hybrid dye/ superconductor optical sensors is described. Here, reflective "mirror layers" deposited atop the high-temperature superconductor, YBa₂Cu₃O_7-δ, are used to enhance the optical performance characteristics of such hybrid sensors. Quantification of the wavelength selectivity for such detector structures is detailed for both dye/high-T_c superconductor and dye/mirror-layer/high-T_c superconductor systems. Optical studies suggest that the inclusion of the mirror layer serves to enhance the wavelength selectivity by reducing the amount of off-resonance signal generated by the detector. On the other hand, the on-resonance signals captured by the dye layer are effectively sensed by the superconductor element. Measurement of the wavelength-dependent optical responsivity of the mirror-layer-modified hybrid detectors shows that energy transfer between the dye and superconducting elements is not diminished by the presence of this reflective layer.