Epoxy Resin Probe Attachment Without Surface Functionalization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for attaching biomolecule probes to epoxy-based resins require an additional functionalization step, which is laborious and time-consuming, limiting their efficiency in biological applications.
Innovation Solution
A method where biomolecule probes are directly bonded to epoxy-based resins without prior functionalization, utilizing amine, thiol, or hydroxyl groups on the biomolecule to react with epoxy groups, and optionally using DMSO washing to enhance bonding consistency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Stability of the object's composition
If epoxy-based resin is used as coating material, then substrate stability and durability are improved, but additional functionalization step is required which increases process complexity and time consumption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and eliminates the intermediate functionalization step from the process chain. By allowing probe molecules to directly bond to epoxy resin groups without requiring prior surface modification with functional monomers, the complex multi-step process is reduced to a simpler direct attachment method while preserving substrate stability.
Solution Approach 2:
The epoxy groups on the resin surface are prepared in advance during resin formation, creating pre-existing reactive sites that can directly bind probe molecules. This preliminary preparation of bonding sites eliminates the need for subsequent functionalization steps.
2Productivity
If functional monomer is added to epoxy-based resin, then probe attachment efficiency is improved, but manufacturing time and labor are increased
Solution Approach 1:
The patent removes the time-consuming functional monomer addition step from the manufacturing process. Probe molecules are attached directly to the epoxy resin groups that inherently exist on the substrate surface, eliminating the intermediate functionalization stage and reducing overall manufacturing time.
Solution Approach 2:
The method skips the intermediate functionalization stage entirely, rushing directly from substrate preparation to probe attachment. This streamlined approach maintains productivity by utilizing the naturally present epoxy groups as attachment sites.
3Reliability
If multiple processing steps are used for probe attachment, then bonding reliability is improved, but process variability increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a more homogeneous and consistent process by using a single direct attachment step rather than multiple sequential steps. The uniform epoxy groups distributed on the resin surface provide consistent bonding conditions across all attachment sites, reducing variability in probe attachment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the bonding function into the inherent epoxy groups of the resin itself, rather than requiring a separate functionalization layer. This integration of bonding capability into the base material reduces the number of interfaces and potential sources of variability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach simplifies the process, reduces variability, and enhances signal consistency in biomolecule detection, making it faster and more cost-effective.
Implementation Method 1
utilizing amine, thiol, or hydroxyl groups on the biomolecule to react with epoxy groups
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to a method for making a solid substrate for conducting biological and chemical assays and to the solid substrate made by the method.