(76c) 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.