METHOD AND APPARATUS FOR PORTABLE PRODUCT AUTHENTICATION

摘要

A method and apparatus for on-site verification of product authentication and quality includes a microplate (10) having a substrate with a light-sensitive compound thereon. The substrate provides immobilization of the light-sensitive compounds and provides a three-dimensional environment similar to free solution for reactions with the product sample to occur. The microplate may include any material having desired light reflective properties and a surface to retain the light-sensitive compounds therein. A metered amount of light-sensitive compound is placed on the microplate. Once the light-sensitive compound is applied to the substrate, the microplate may be sent to the test site where product testing is to be performed. A sample product is placed on the microplate (fig. 9a) and the light-sensitive compound thereon is free to react with key ingredients in the sample product. A holder (320) may be used to facilitate application of the sample on the microplate and/or subsequent analysis of the microplate (fig. 9c). The microplate is then irradiated with a light source and light emission or absorption due to the interaction of the light-sensitive compound and the key ingredient is compared to a fingerprint.