Nano and Microscale Patterned Surfaces for Centering a Droplet
AssigneeThermo Electron Scientific Instruments LLC
InventorsMargaret E. Robinson, Damian W. Ashmead
Life of this patent
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Abstract
System and methods for spectrophotometers are described that can utilize ferrules configured to hold a sample test droplet therebetween via surface tension. Light sources in the systems can shine a light on the test droplet and an output of reflected or refracted light can be measured, which can assist in various testing and analysis procedures. Nanoscale or microscale structures can be incorporated on the ferrules to create hydrophobic or superhydrophobic surfaces. This helps prevent test droplets from wetting the ferrules surfaces and helps prevent polluting or mixing of test materials. The ferrules can therefore achieve certain self-cleaning capabilities and test results are more accurate.
Claims20
A spectrophotometer comprising:
- first and second ferrules, each including first and second pedestals, wherein the first and second ferrules are moveably coupled so that the first and second pedestals align on opposite sides of a sample location;
- a plurality of nano or micro scale structures formed on the first or second pedestal, the plurality of nano or micro scale structures causing the first or second pedestal to be hydrophobic;
- and
- one or more radiation sources, optically coupled with one or both of the first and second ferrules and configured to excite test droplets suspended between the first and second pedestals in the sample location.
A ferrule for use in a spectrophotometer, comprising:
- a pedestal configured to receive a drop of test material thereon;
- and
- a plurality of nano or micro structures formed on the pedestal, the plurality of nano or micro structures causing the pedestal to be hydrophobic.
A method of analyzing a test droplet comprising:
- placing a test droplet on a sample location of a first ferrule, having a first pedestal;
- moving a second ferrule, having a second pedestal, so that the first and second pedestals align on opposite sides of the sample location and engage the test droplet so as to suspend the test droplet between the first ferrule and the second ferrule, wherein one or both of the first and second pedestal include a plurality of nano or micro scale structures, the plurality of nano or micro scale structures causing the first or second pedestal to be hydrophobic,
- irradiating the test droplet with one or more radiation sources, optically coupled with one or both of the first and second ferrules and configured to excite test droplet suspended between the first and second pedestals in the sample location;
- and
- detecting the light transmitted through the test droplet with detector.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.