A Comprehensive Review on Photoacoustic-Based Devices for Biomedical Applications.

Area of Science:

• Optoacoustic physics
• Biomedical engineering
• Materials science

Background:

• The photoacoustic effect, where light generates acoustic waves, is a rapidly advancing technology.
• It enables photoacoustic imaging and the development of miniaturized ultrasound probes for biological insights.
• Significant research interest stems from its versatile applications in science and medicine.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review materials and fabrication processes for photoacoustic targets (biological and non-biological).
• To detail component features crucial for achieving desired photoacoustic performance.
• To introduce modeling methods for the photoacoustic effect, discussing their pros and cons.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of materials and fabrication techniques for photoacoustic targets.
• Analysis of component characteristics influencing device performance.
• Survey of existing modeling approaches for the photoacoustic effect.

Main Results:

• Identification of various materials and fabrication strategies for photoacoustic applications.
• Characterization of key components for optimizing photoacoustic system performance.
• Overview of different modeling techniques, including their respective advantages and limitations.

Conclusions:

• The photoacoustic effect offers significant potential for advanced imaging and sensing.
• Effective device design relies on careful material selection, fabrication, and early-stage modeling.
• Ongoing challenges in fabrication, modeling, and characterization require further investigation for system development.