Microfluidic-Based Sensor for Safety Application

Microfluidic-based sensor for safety application

 Joseph Parisi, Ying Wang, Yu Lei

Department of Chemical, Materials, & Biomolecular Engineering, University of Connecticut, 191 Auditorium Road, Unit 3222, Storrs, Connecticut 06269

Food and water safety and the detection of food- and water-born pathogens is still a major concern for the food and water industry. Current techniques lack sensitivity, versatility, and quick detection. Research in the area of microfluidics has already solved some of these problems by creating various separation and detection devices.  However, many of these devices require the use of separate equipment to prepare the sample for testing.  Very little research has been performed on combining these devices to create a complete detection device capable of working without the need of macro scale equipment.  In this study, we will integrate a sample separator with a simple detector for real time separation and detection of targets. The proof-of-concept will be demonstrated using a model particle and the analytical characteristics will be investigated. Its application for real pathogen detection will be explored.