Bullock L.E., Robinson A.E.
University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, US
Keywords: Confocal, Excimer, lab-on-a-chip, microfluidics, micromachining, microscopy
Lab-on-a-Chip sensors require precise control and mixing of samples, reagents and buffers. This paper will present new techniques for using Excimer Laser, micro-machined, three-dimensional (3D) channel and well features to pump and control fluids in micro-fluidic devices. The goal of this project is to enable the development of microfluidic sensor devices that are small, portable, and economic, yet have capabilities that exceed those of current laboratory bench instruments. The ability to measure and control the size and shape of these structures is a primary requirement, not only to ensure the functionality of existing devices, but also to provide a basic tool for discovering and developing novel designs. Advanced Confocal Microscopy (ACM), from Hyphenated-Systems, has the ability to acquire a two-dimensional slice through a sample in a small fraction of a second, and can assemble and render a high-resolution, 3D model composed of hundreds of slices in a few seconds. The nanotechnology particles used as florescent tags, and the microtechnology used to create the 3D micro-fluidic sensors, will enable biotechnology breakthroughs in discovery science, medical research, and medical diagnostics. In the coming years, micro-fluidics has the potential of making an impact similar to what microelectronics has in the past forty years.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 3, Technical Proceedings of the 2007 NSTI Nanotechnology Conference and Trade Show, Volume 3
Published: May 20, 2007
Pages: 375 - 378
Industry sector: Sensors, MEMS, Electronics
Topic: Micro & Bio Fluidics, Lab-on-Chip
ISBN: 1-4200-6184-4