Surface Optofluidic Implementations towards the Development of a Biosensor

Citation

Choi, Jae-Woo (2011) Surface Optofluidic Implementations towards the Development of a Biosensor. Dissertation (Ph.D.), California Institute of Technology. doi:10.7907/KYZG-3503. https://resolver.caltech.edu/CaltechTHESIS:03242011-165209307

Abstract

Microfluidics is a multidisciplinary field that uses minute volumes of liquids to attempt complex functionalities. These complicated functionalities often require manipulating interfaces through external forces. In addition, optics have become a fundamental necessity for most microfluidic devices. We combine these two concepts and call it surface optofluidics. Here, we focus on the advantages of surface optofluidics for the development of a biosensor, specifically focusing on the flexibility and adaptability offered by these techniques.

To introduce the advantages presented by surface optofluidics, devices using droplet electrowetting techniques are discussed. We then discuss biosensing through structured electrodes on surfaces. The electrodes are used to align asymmetric bacteria. The aligned bacteria are detected optically. This method of detection is improved by incorporating two different surface optofluidic methods. Concentration and motion control of the bacterium is demonstrated with electric fields on three dimensionally structured electrodes and an optothermal nanoparticle carpet. Finally, we show preliminary work in the study of single bacterium behavior using nanoparticles as labels to detect its specific alignment in space.

Thesis Files