Laboratory-on-a-Chip and Micro Total Analysis Systems

Our experience with these applications comes primarily from the standpoint of dispensing biological material into micro electronic mechanical devices (MEMS). We have a diverse portfolio of examples of how our piezoelectric dispensing technologies have been implemented for this purpose. In addition to piezoelectric dispensing we also provide tools such as microcontact printing systems capable of patterning surfaces with structures down to the nanometer scale. Furthermore we maintain a portfolio of modular flow cell components that are assembled for realizing intricate microfluidic formatted workflows.

• Precision Dispensing Systems
• Biosensors typically have very small (ie., < 500 micron) spotting target areas. Although it is possible to dispense spots down to 25 microns using our piezoelectric dispensing nozzles, normally this needs to be done in conjunction with a video targeting system. We have a variety of video imaging tools and lighting schemes. Also we develop customized image processing software to meet the particular nuances associated with these small devices.

• Microcontact Printing and Nanoimprint Lithography
• Micrometer and nanometer scale patterning enables totally new approaches towards developing biosensors that is becoming a rapidly emerging field. Using these techniques it is possible to devise intricate light guides on surface to selectively illuminate target areas. Also surfaces can be patterned to allow for selective affinity of array features and enhanced optical sensing (ie., optical antenna).

• Microfluidic Flow Cells
• To complement the piezoelectric and microcontact capabilities, we also provide a variety of components for assembling microfluidic flow cells. This includes the possibility of coating coverslips and glass slides before mounting them with microfluidic channels (like PDMS). We can configure programmable syringe pump modules, optical fibers and heating / cooling elements.