Device development towards large scale repeatable fabrication of U-bent fiber optic refractive index sensors; array sensors, distributed sensors, hand-held detectors are ongoing. Research is also carried out towards integration of U-bent optical fiber sensors with microfluidic devices fabricated in-house.

Sensitive and selective detection of heavy metal ions in water bodies is of paramount importance owing to its detrimental effects on human health. To combat this, compact U-bent fiber optic sensors functionalized with metal organic frameworks (MOFs) has been demonstrated for the rapid detection of trace heavy metal ions such as Chromium (Cr), Copper (Cu), lead (Pb) etc.

Food contamination due to natural toxins is a serious safety issue challenging the global food supply chain. Similarly drinking and groundwater contamination poses a threat not only to humans but also to animals. The quick and precise assessment of these contaminants in the water is one of the most important aspects of environmental monitoring. U-bent fiber optic sensor probes are being used to realize assays for the detection of these small molecules like antibiotics and mycotoxins like ochratoxins.

Detection of biomarkers such as proteins and nucleic acids at very low concentrations is achieved by performing sandwich immunoassays using U-bent optical fiber sensors. Several protocols for efficient analyte detection, reduction of non-specific binding, increased sensitivity using plasmonic bio-conjugates have been developed. There is ongoing research in this field to reach lower limits of detection with better sensitivity and repeatability. 

Pathogens absorb light at 280 nm. The U-bent probe, with its increased depth of penetration, can detect the presence of pathogens on the surface, by evanescent wave absorbance measured at 280 nm. Research is being carried out to use suitable bioreceptors and detect target molecules and pathogens present in sample.