Photonic Sensor Arrays Based on a Non-Electrical Light Source

Employing xerogel based microdot sensor arrays, wherein recognition chemicals (luminophores) are sequestered, to detect and quantify multiple analytes is described earlier in technology no. 5729. Current methods of detection (based on color-change) r equire an external excitation source to emit visible light (such as an LED atop which microdots are printed). These consume power, lack longevity, and also necessitate wired connections, adversely affecting performance. This invention addresses these limitations without losing any of the earlier listed advantages and will work with any photonically-based chemical sensor modality. Other values are:


It uses a sealed 90Sr beta emitter (with or without a scintillator) as a photon source that do es not require any electrical power. It includes a chemically responsive sensor array and an array-based photodetector. Electrical power is needed only to power the photodetector. The source operates continuously and unattended for several years. T he pulsing (intrinsically high rate) can be potentially exploited.

Detection and/or quantification of more than one analyte in a sample at the same time

Safety precautions (sealing et al) undertaken; besides, it is unaffected by water, osion; low heat dissipation; low risk of fire/explosion.

Non-requirement of ‘wiring’ – suitable in specific applications; micrometer sized sources can be easily made; shape, brightness, quality easily manipulated to suit application. This i improvement over prior sensor technology. Applications of sensors exist in medicine and biotechnology, environmental pollution and ecology, agricultural and industrial chemistry, criminology and forensic science, human and animal nutritional Science,

Categories: Sensors, Screening

Type of Offer: Licensing



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