Defected photonic crystal as propylene glycol THz sensor using parity-time symmetry

Abstract Detecting unsafe levels of chemical gases and vapors is essential in improving and maintaining a healthy environment for all to enjoy. Propylene glycol is a colorless, synthetic gas commonly used in medications, fragrances, and cosmetics. It causes side effects such as headaches, lightheadedness, nausea, and fainting. So, monitoring of propylene glycol is critically vital. This study uses a defected photonic crystal as a propylene glycol THz sensor. Due to the high absorption of propylene glycol, the intensity of the resonant confined mode is very small. As a result, the performance of the designed sensor seems unsatisfactory. We will use parity-time symmetry for the first time in THz to magnify the resonant confined mode to detect propylene glycol. The effect of microcavity thickness, incident angle, and gain/loss factor will be studied. The optimized sensor recorded distinguished results compared to other studies for the detection of propylene glycol.