Numerical Analysis of Laser-Excited SAM-Coated Magnetic Nanoparticles for Electromagnetic Field Enhancement in Optical Gas Sensing

This study investigates the electromagnetic field enhancement and optical response of self-assembled monolayer (SAM)-coated iron nanoparticles under laser excitation, with the aim of advancing optical gas sensing technologies. Using finite element method (FEM) simulations, we model the interaction of laser beams in both the visible (400-700 nm) and infrared (1000-2500 nm) spectral ranges with SAM-coated and uncoated nanoparticles. The results reveal that SAM coatings significantly amplify localized electromagnetic fields-reaching up to ~60 V/m in the visible range-while providing stable, wavelength-independent field distributions. In contrast, uncoated nanoparticles exhibit weaker but more variable field responses. Angular dependence analysis indicates maximal field enhancement at perpendicular (90°) detection, suggesting an orientation-sensitive design consideration for optical sensors. These findings demonstrate that SAM coatings enable stable, wavelength-independent electromagnetic responses, offering a promising pathway toward miniaturized and highly sensitive laser-based optical gas sensors.