Miniature Biosensor Based on Guided Wave Technology and An Acousto-Optic Tunable Filter. Phase 2

摘要

In Phase II of this SBIR program Brimrose has researched, designed, and built a miniature solid-state biosensor module based on an acousto-optic tunable filter (AOTF) and embedded into an optical immunodetection system. It offers the combined advantages of compact size, lightweight, low operating power, long life time, ruggedness without moving parts, high speed with random wavelength access capability and zero tuning hysteresis. In addition, Brimrose has conducted in depth investigations, both theoretical and experimental, of Integrated-Optic AOTF (IOAOTF) structures for biosensor applications. The final comparative analysis of performance characteristics of both integrated-optic and bulk AOTFs had revealed significant advantages of the bulk one both in throughput and spectral tuning range. This resulted in the selection of the bulk type AOTF as the spectral selective element of the optical biosensor module embedded into the immunosensor system. Applications for this product include: general fluorescence spectroscopy; biochemical engineering and biotechnology; remote sensing; industry process and quality control; monitoring of analyte concentrations in experimental animals and in cell cultures; and water monitoring of environmental pollutants and contaminants.