Mid-infrared (MIR) photonic sensors are revolutionizing optical sensing by enabling precise chemical and biological detection through the interrogation of molecules’ unique vibrational modes. This review explores the core principles of MIR photonics, emphasizing the light–matter interactions within the 2–20 µm wavelength range. Additionally, it examines innovative sensor architectures, such as integrated photonic platforms and optical fibers, that enhance sensitivity, specificity, and device miniaturization. The discussion extends to groundbreaking applications in environmental monitoring, medical diagnostics, industrial processes, and security, highlighting the transformative impact of these technologies. This comprehensive overview aims to illuminate the current state-of-the-art while inspiring future developments in MIR photonic sensing.

In optical communication and sensing, silicon nitride (SiN) photonics plays a crucial role. By adeptly guiding and manipulating light on a silicon-based platform, it facilitates the creation of compact and highly efficient photonic devices. This, in turn, propels advancements in high-speed communication systems and enhances the sensitivity of optical sensors. This study presents a comprehensive exploration wherein we both numerically and experimentally display the efficacy of a SiN-based ring resonator designed for refractive index sensing applications. The device’s sensitivity, numerically estimated at approximately 110 nm/RIU, closely aligns with the experimental value of around 112.5 nm/RIU. The RR sensor’s Q factor and limit of detection (LOD) are 1.7154 × 10⁴ and 7.99 × 10⁻⁴ RIU, respectively. These congruent results underscore the reliability of the two-dimensional finite element method (2D-FEM) as a valuable tool for accurately predicting and assessing the device’s performance before fabrication.

The fabrication processes for silicon nitride photonic integrated circuits evolved from microelectronics components technology—basic processes have common roots and can be executed using the same type of equipment. In comparison to that of electronics components, passive photonic structures require fewer manufacturing steps and fabricated elements have larger critical dimensions. In this work, we present and discuss our first results on design and development of fundamental building blocks for silicon nitride integrated photonic platform. The scope of the work covers the full design and manufacturing chain, from numerical simulations of optical elements, design, and fabrication of the test structures to optical characterization and analysis the results. In particular, technological processes were developed and evaluated for fabrication of the waveguides (WGs), multimode interferometers (MMIs), and arrayed waveguide gratings (AWGs), which confirmed the potential of the technology and correctness of the proposed approach.

This paper investigates the wavelength-dependent sensitivity of a ridge waveguide based on a silicon nitride (Si₃N₄) platform, combining numerical analysis and experimental validation. In the first part, the modal characteristics of a Si₃N₄ ridge waveguide are analyzed in detail, focusing on the effective refractive index (n_eff), evanescent field ratio (EFR), and propagation losses (α_prop). These parameters are critical for understanding the interplay of guided light with the surrounding medium and optimizing waveguide design for sensing applications. In the second part, the wavelength-dependent sensitivity of a racetrack ring resonator (RTRR) based on the Si₃N₄ waveguide is experimentally demonstrated. The results demonstrate a clear increase in the sensitivity of the RTRR, rising from 116.3 nm/RIU to 143.3 nm/RIU as the wavelength shifts from 1520 nm to 1600 nm. This trend provides valuable insights into the device’s enhanced performance at longer wavelengths, underscoring its potential for applications requiring high sensitivity in this spectral range.

The unique components of PDMS-based microfluidic systems are those combined with liquid crystalline materials. Their functionality, especially when it comes to optical applications, highly depends on the LC molecular arrangement. This work summarizes experimental investigations on the orientation of molecules within LC:PDMS structures according to the manufacturing technologies. The availability of high-quality molds to pattern PDMS is a significant barrier to the creation of advanced microfluidic systems. The possibility of using inexpensive molds in the rapid and reproducible fabrication process has been particularly examined as an alternative to photolithography. Different geometries, including an innovative approach for the electrical control of the molecular arrangement within PDMS microchannels, are presented. These studies are critical for novel optofluidic systems, introducing further research on LC:PDMS waveguiding structures.