ISFET Based Highly Selective Biochemical Sensors and Sensor Arrays

This technology describes a device and a method that combines porous-xerogel-based sensing with CMOS Ion-Sensitive Field Effect Transistors (ISFETs) for measurement of pH or other ionic concentrations in fluids. The former works through an analyte-re cognition chemical sequestered within a porous xerogel layer or mass that reacts with the analyte entering through the pores to generate optical signals. In this technology a xerogel layer is placed over an ISFET (to create a ‘XeroFET’) and the combi nation employed to function in a differential format for better accuracy. This means that the differential signal between a XeroFET with an active analyte-recognizer and another with no recognizer is amplified and measured. In another manifestation, arrays of the above differential XeroFET configurations are created on a chip (lab-on-a-chip) to measure multiple ionic concentrations.

Besides the above, the following advantages exist:


Integrates porous xerogel-based pH sensing into a diff erential CMOS chip. Although the values of xerogel technology are known, this is the first instance of xerogel use in a context other than optical sensing

The device is a semiconductor-based ionic concentration sensor and its differential form rovides better accuracy over alternatives.

ISFET-based sensors are easier to clean, has no polarization effects from wiping or scrubbing, are durable and respond more quickly than alternatives

The device is generic and can be made for of choice

The device is easily tunable for use with electronic circuits

CMOS technology that has advantages of low cost and low energy consumption is employed

The process is scalable and the device mass produce-able

Categories: General Engineering

Type of Offer: Licensing



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