DEVICE AND METHODS OF DETECTION OF AIRBORNE AGENTS

摘要

Provided are methods, devices and systems that utilize free-surface fluidics and SERS for analyte detection with high sensitivity and specificity. The molecules can be airborne agents, including but not limited to explosives, narcotics, hazardous chemicals, or other chemical species. The free-surface fluidic architecture is created using an open microchannel, and exhibits a large surface to volume ratio. The free-surface fluidic interface can filter interferent molecules, while concentrating airborne analyte molecules. The microchannel flow enables controlled aggregation of SERS-active probe particles in the flow, thereby enhancing the detector's sensitivity.

主权项

1. A free-surface detection device comprising:
a substrate; a fluid flow channel having a first end and a second end located in or on the substrate; at least one free-surface interface region located between the first end and the second end, wherein the free-surface interface region is open on at least one side to atmospheric air; at least one temperature control element located in the at least one free-surface interface region; at least one electrode in the fluid flow channel; and at least one controller in electrical and/or thermal communication with the at least one temperature control element and electrical communication with the at least one electrode.