Our researchers have invented a new technique wherein they propose a microfluidics platform which enables a microsphere to be easily and reversibly positioned for optical sensing, without the need for a stem. Hence the microfluidic platform can be reused for measuring multiple microsphere resonators or the same microsphere coated with targeted bio-species. The invention consists in a microfluidics device with a novel channel designed to flow a microsphere-containing fluid and immobilize a microsphere at a chosen location. This is particularly attractive to optical sensing as the location can be prealigned with optical elements in the testing set up or with an integrated optical waveguide. The microspheres in solution can be made target specific and be used as disposable probes for bio sensing applications. This technology has a wide range of applications in sensing and bio-sensors.
Cross-Sectional View Schematic Showing Trapped Microsphere at a Target Position