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Multicolor Fluorescence Detection for Droplet Microfluidics Using Optical Fibers
Published on: May 5, 2016
A multi-color fast-switching microfluidic droplet dye laser.
Sindy K Y Tang1, Zhenyu Li, Adam R Abate
1Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA.
Lab on a Chip
|December 8, 2009
Summary
Researchers developed a fast, multi-color microfluidic dye laser. This novel laser switches wavelengths up to 3.6 kHz, enabling advanced on-chip spectroscopy and flow cytometry applications.
Area of Science:
- Photonics and Laser Technology
- Microfluidics
- Spectroscopy
Background:
- Whispering gallery mode (WGM) lasers offer high sensitivity and efficiency.
- Microfluidic devices enable precise control over small fluid volumes.
- Dye lasers provide tunable wavelength emission, crucial for various spectroscopic applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a multi-color microfluidic dye laser.
- To achieve rapid wavelength switching capabilities.
- To explore potential applications in on-chip spectroscopy and flow cytometry.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a microfluidic chip for droplet manipulation.
- Integration of different dye solutions within alternating droplets.
- Excitation of whispering gallery modes within the microfluidic droplets.
- Characterization of the laser emission spectrum and switching frequency.
Main Results:
- Demonstration of a multi-color microfluidic dye laser operating in WGM.
- Achieved wavelength tunability between 580 nm and 680 nm.
- Realized wavelength switching at frequencies up to 3.6 kHz, the highest reported for dye lasers.
- Confirmed potential for on-chip spectroscopy and flow cytometry.
Conclusions:
- The developed microfluidic dye laser is the fastest reported to date.
- This technology offers a promising platform for integrated photonic devices.
- Potential applications include advanced analytical techniques and biological sensing.
