Digital microfluidic lab-on-a-chip for biosensor technology and (bio)catalysis.

The objective of this project is to study the added value of the digital microfluidics lab-on-a-chip concept for fast and controlled micro- and nanoparticle synthesis for applications in biosensor and catalyst technology. These particles in combination with the microfluidics platform constitute the basic building blocks of a biosensing mechanism for the detection of peanut allergens in food. The integration of the expertise of both the Division of Mechatronics, Biostatistics and Sensors (MeBioS) and the Center for Surface Chemistry and Catalysis (COK) is indispensable for the realization of this research project. The COK carries the label Centre of Excellence in Catalytic Science and is a world leading group for the design, the physicochemical characterization and testing of custom-made catalysts for fine, agro and food chemicals, fat and oil chemistry, sugar chemistry and petrochemistry. The COK possesses the required expertise to bring this project to a good end. The MeBioS division is a frontline research group in sensor development, including statistical data processing and model based sensor design, for food quality and safety measurements in the biological production chain. Since two years biosensor development is a major research topic in the division.

Keywords:Lab-on-a-chip

Disciplines:Other chemical sciences, Nutrition and dietetics, Agricultural animal production, Food sciences and (bio)technology, Analytical chemistry, Macromolecular and materials chemistry