Sandia's Biosensors and Nanomaterials Department conducts research and development at the interface between biology, synthetic chemistry, and surface science to deliver prototype solutions in applications ranging from biodetection to photovoltaics. Sensor development includes discrete sensors and sensor arrays based on piezoelectric, fiber-optic, micro-optic, electrochemical, biochemical, and microimpedance devices. Microfluidic sample preparation prior to detection is a growing interest. Synthetic chemistry efforts include nanoparticle growth, surface functionalization, and molecular electronics. This work addresses needs for novel materials in addition to supporting the biosensor development effort.
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Sandia has developed a hand-held chemical analysis system. The instrument uses three microfabricated analysis stages. Stage one collects and concentrates the samples known as analytes. Stage two is a gas chromatography (GC) column used to separate the analytes.
Stage three is an array of surface acoustic wave (SAW) sensors used to identify and quantify the separated analytes.
We have developed a “hybrid” system, known as MicroChemLabTM, where chemical separation (using a short column for rapid analysis with less resolution) is performed with the addition of an array of chemical detectors. This combination approach provides rapid and discriminating analyses. The µChemLabTM combines three cascaded stages; each realized using microfabricated components, (along with a miniature pump) for the analytical system.
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The second stage in the µChemLabTM is the GC separation stage. This stage involves a high aspect ratio (depth-to-width) GC column that is fabricated using deep reactive ion etching into a silicon wafer. The column is spiral shaped and occupies only 1 cm2 of chip area and is typically about 1 m in length. The column cross-section is typically 50 – 100 µm wide by 400 µm deep. The high aspect ratio provides a large flow cross-section, while maintaining effective separation due to the small width. Typically air is used as the carrier gas (5 psi across the column) providing separations in 30 – 60 seconds.
Chromatographic separations can be performed either isothermally or with temperature ramping (variable temperature). The latter provides some advantages in separating mixtures of analytes with widely varying boiling points. A heater and temperature probe are affixed to the back of the GC column and are used to control the temperature.
For additional information or questions, please email us at Chemical Microsensors and Sensor Microsystems
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