Abstract: An optochemical fluorescence sensor with a biorecognitive layer for measuring the concentration of one or more analytes in a sample is provided with at least one island layer which is applied on a sensor substrate. The islands of the island layer are in the form of electrically-conductive material and have a diameter of less than 300 nm, the biorecognitive layer being directly applied on the island layer or bound via a spacer film. In addition, an analyte-specific fluorescent compound is provided which may be added to the sample or is provided in the sensor itself. The biorecognitive layer can bind the analyte to be measured directly or by means of analyte-binding molecules, the originally low quantum yield of the fluorescent compound increasing strongly in the vicinity of the island layer.

Abstract: An optochemical sensor for measuring concentrations of analytes is provided with a reactive matrix preferably made of polymeric material capable of swelling. Further provided are a mirror layer and a layer of a plurality of discrete islands that are electrically conductive, between which layers the reactive matrix is positioned, the diameter of the islands being smaller than the wavelength of the light employed for monitoring and evaluation.

Abstract: The breaking strength of glass fibers, such as generally utilized in optical communication techniques, is materially improved by subjecting a glass fiber to a heat treatment whereby the glass fiber is relatively slowly pulled through a controlled heat zone having a temperature gradient extending from a temperature at or at least relatively close to the softening temperature of the glass fiber to about room temperature.

Abstract: An optochemical sensor for measuring concentrations of analytes is provided with a reactive matrix preferably made of polymeric material capable of swelling. Further provided are a mirror layer and a layer of a plurality of discrete islands that are electrically conductive, between which layers the reactive matrix is positioned, the diameter of the islands being smaller than the wavelength of the light employed for monitoring and evaluation.