Miniaturized Online Trace Analytics

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The patent describes a miniaturized measuring device for detecting trace substances in liquids using a microfabricated spiral-shaped liquid optical waveguide. The device features a silicon wafer with a microchannel coated with a low-refractive material, allowing the formation of a long light path within a compact substrate. Integrated components include fluidic pumps, mixers, a light source, and a light detector, enabling on-site optical spectroscopic analysis (such as absorption, transmission, fluorescence, and Raman spectroscopy) of liquid samples, even at very low concentrations.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• On-site water quality monitoring for environmental analysis (e.g., rivers, lakes).
• Industrial process monitoring to detect trace contaminants in manufacturing fluids.
• Medical and clinical diagnostics for detecting biomarkers in small liquid volumes.
• Food and beverage quality control through fast liquid analysis.
• Pharmaceutical production for quality assurance and contamination monitoring.
• Research laboratories needing miniaturized, sensitive chemical analysis platforms.
• Field deployment in remote areas for real-time pollutant detection.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Significantly miniaturized design allows portable and on-site analysis, eliminating the need for bulky laboratory equipment.
• Long optical path in a small device increases sensitivity, enabling detection of very low concentrations of substances.
• Low sample volume requirements minimize waste and cost.
• Integrated fluidic handling (pumps, mixers) automates and streamlines sample preparation and measurement.
• Versatile for multiple spectroscopic techniques (absorption, fluorescence, Raman) and a wide range of applications.
• Can be mass-fabricated using established microfabrication technologies, reducing production costs.
• Highly customizable for specific analytes or measurement protocols.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a measuring device comprising a device for forming a liquid optical waveguide, comprising a substrate (1) having a closed micro-channel (2) which is curved at least in sections and having a low refractive index coating (13). At least one supply line (6) for supplying liquid is formed in the substrate (1), and a device for axially injecting light into the closed micro-channel (2) and/or for axially extracting light from the closed micro-channel is provided on at least one end of the closed micro-channel (2). Said device also comprises a light source (4), a light detector (5) and a first liquid pump (9) which supplies a sample liquid (7) to the closed micro-channel (2) via the at least one supply line (6, 6a).