The finite element method is employed to study on refractive index sensing properties of hollow silver nanoplates. Based on the optical simulation model

the extinction spectra and electromagnetic field distributions of hollow silver nanoplates in the infrared（IR） range are analyzed

and the corresponding relationship between the change of dielectric refractive indexes and the surface plasmon resonance peaks of hollow silver nanoplates is established. The simulation results show that localized surface plasmon resonance（LSPR） sensors based on hollow silver nanoplates have a tunable detection wavelength and high refractive index sensitivity. By changing the thickness of hollow silver nanoplates

the surface plasmon resonant peaks can be tunable in the IR band. In addition

due to the existence of whispering gallery modes in the hollow silver nanoplate

its localized electric field is significantly enhanced

which makes the refractive index sensitivity as high as 1333 nm/RIU

and the figure of merit（FOM） can reach 9. 52. It is of great significance in the fields of optical sensing

biosensing and environmental monitoring.