Ariel Guerreiro

Abstract
Topological photonics, leveraging concepts from condensed matter physics, offers transformative potential in the design of robust optical systems. This study investigates the integration of topologically protected edge states into plasmonic nanostructures for enhanced optical sensing. We propose a toy model comprising two chains of metallic filaments forming a one-dimensional plasmonic crystal with diatomic-like unit cells, positioned on a waveguide. The system exhibits edge states localized at the boundaries and a central defect, supported by the Su-Schrieffer-Heeger (SSH) model. These edge states, characterized by significant electric field enhancement and topological robustness, are shown to overcome key limitations in traditional plasmonic sensors, including sensitivity to noise and fabrication inconsistencies. Through coupled mode theory, we demonstrate the potential for strong coupling between plasmonic and guided optical modes, offering pathways for improved interferometric sensing schemes. This work highlights the applicability of topological photonics in advancing optical sensors.

Abstract
This study explores the application of machine learning algorithms to optimize the geometry of the plasmonic layer in a surface plasmon resonance photonic crystal fiber sensor. By leveraging the simplicity of linear regression ( LR) alongside the advanced predictive capabilities of the gradient boosted regression (GBR) algorithm, the proposed approach enables accurate prediction and optimization of the plasmonic layer's configuration to achieve a desired spectral response. The integration of LR and GBR with computational simulations yielded impressive results, with an R-2 exceeding 0.97 across all analyzed variables. Moreover, the predictive accuracy demonstrated a remarkably low margin of error, epsilon < 10(-15). This combination of methods provides a robust and efficient pathway for optimizing sensor design, ensuring enhanced performance and reliability in practical applications.

Abstract
In our study, we conducted a thorough analysis of the spectral characteristics of a D-shaped surface plasmon resonance (SPR) photonic crystal fiber (PCF) refractive index sensor, incorporating a full width at half maximum (FWHM) analysis. We explored four distinct plasmonic materials—silver (Ag), gold (Au), Ga-doped zinc oxide (GZO), and an Ag-nanowire metamaterial—to understand their impact on sensor performance. Our investigation encompassed a comprehensive theoretical modeling and analysis, aiming to unravel the intricate relationship between material composition, sensor geometry, and spectral response. By scrutinizing the sensing properties offered by each material, we laid the groundwork for designing multiplasmonic resonance sensors. Our findings provide valuable insights into how different materials can be harnessed to tailor SPR sensing platforms for diverse applications and environmental conditions, fostering the development of advanced and adaptable detection systems. This research not only advances our understanding of the fundamental principles governing SPR sensor performance but also underscores the potential for leveraging varied plasmonic materials to engineer bespoke sensing solutions optimized for specific requirements and performance metrics. © 2025 SBMO/SBMag.

Abstract
Exploring optical analogues with paraxial fluids of light has been a subject of great interest over the past years. Despite many optical analogues having been created and explored with these systems, they have some limitations that usually hinder the observation of the desired dynamics. Since these systems map the effective time onto the propagation direction, the fixed size of the nonlinear media limits the experimental effective time, and only the output state is accessible. In this work, we present a solution to overcome these problems in the form of an optical feedback loop, which consists of reconstructing the output state, by using the off-axis digital holography technique, and then re-injecting it again at the entrance of the medium through the utilization of Spatial Light Modulators. This technique enables access to intermediate states and an extension of the system effective time. Furthermore, the total control of the amplitude and phase of the beam at the input of the medium, also allows us to explore more exotic configurations that may be interesting in the context of optical analogues, that otherwise would be hard to create. To demonstrate the capabilities of the setup, we explore qualitatively some case studies, such as the dark soliton decay into vortices with the propagation of shock waves, and the collision dynamics between three flat-top states. The results presented in this work pave the way for probing new dynamics with paraxial fluids of light.

Abstract
This paper presents the examination of a planar waveguide sensor featuring a bimetallic layer, revealing its potential applicability across both the visible and infrared spectrums. The bimetallic layer consists of adjacent gold and silver slabs positioned atop the waveguide's core. This arrangement demonstrates the activation of two distinct plasmon resonances, indicating promising prospects for multiparameter sensing applications.