Based on the theory of reflection of a limited light beam from a plane-layered structure, the surface plasmon wave on the free surface of a gold film excited by the Kretschmann scheme is considered, as well as the surface wave in a planar surface waveguide for comparison. The sensitivity of optical sensors based on these surface waves is compared. Several methods are proposed for increasing the sensitivity of sensors based on surface waveguides. The necessary accuracy of manufacturing of the film thicknesses to obtain efficient sensors is estimated.
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