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Updated: Jun 10, 2025
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Multicolor Fluorescence Detection for Droplet Microfluidics Using Optical Fibers
Published on: May 5, 2016
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An integrated, optofluidic system with aligned optical waveguides, microlenses, and coupling prisms for fluorescence
Daniel S-W Park1, Brandon M Young2, Byoung H You3
1Center for BioModular Multiscale Systems for Precision Medicine, Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA.
Journal of Microelectromechanical Systems : a Joint IEEE and ASME Publication on Microstructures, Microactuators, Microsensors, and Microsystems
|October 11, 2024
Summary
This study presents an advanced micro-optical biosensor using laser-induced fluorescence. The novel design achieves highly sensitive and efficient detection of fluorescent samples with a low detection limit and high signal-to-noise ratio.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Optical Sensing
- Microfluidics
Background:
- Micro-optical biosensors are crucial for sensitive detection.
- Existing biosensors face challenges in sensitivity and efficiency.
- Laser-induced fluorescence offers high specificity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To design and fabricate an improved laser-induced fluorescence micro-optical biosensor.
- To enhance sensitivity, signal-to-noise ratio, and sampling efficiency.
- To utilize cyclic olefin copolymer (COC) and poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) for key components.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of a micro-optical biosensor using COC waveguides and PMMA fluidic substrate.
- Integration of microlenses and a COC coupling prism.
- Utilizing double-sided hot embossing and thermal fusion bonding.
- Optimization of waveguide dimensions and coupling prism design.
Main Results:
- Achieved a maximum signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of 119.
- Determined a lowest detection limit of 7.34 × 10-20 mol at SNR of 2.
- Demonstrated high focusing of fluorescent radiation by microlenses.
- Confirmed efficient evanescent excitation near the critical angle.
Conclusions:
- The developed micro-optical biosensor enables rapid, low-cost fluorescent sample detection.
- High SNR and low detection limits were achieved.
- The integrated design enhances sampling efficiency and overall performance.
