Semiconductor Analysis Chip Micropore Electroosmotic Flow Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current semiconductor analysis chips for detecting particles in sample liquids face challenges in efficiently and accurately identifying particles due to interference from electroosmotic flow and surface tension, which can hinder the flow and detection of particles.
Innovation Solution
The semiconductor analysis chip incorporates a semiconductor substrate with intersecting flow channels, a micropore, and electrodes to facilitate electroosmotic flow in the same direction as the sample liquid, using a third electrode downstream of the micropore to maintain continuous flow and reduce surface tension interference, allowing for precise detection of particles by monitoring changes in ion current.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a micropore is used to detect particles in sample liquid, then particle detection sensitivity is improved, but electroosmotic flow and surface tension interfere with particle passage
Solution Approach 1:
A third electrode is introduced as an intermediary element downstream of the micropore to generate electroosmotic flow that assists particle passage. This mediator electrode creates a beneficial electroosmotic effect that overcomes the harmful interference, enabling particles to pass through the micropore smoothly while maintaining detection sensitivity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the electrical parameters by introducing a third electrode that applies a specific voltage to generate electroosmotic flow in the same direction as sample liquid flow. This parameter change transforms the electroosmotic effect from a harmful interference into a useful force that enhances particle transport through the micropore.
2Measurement precision
If electrodes are used to detect particle passage through micropore, then detection accuracy is improved, but surface tension hinders continuous sample liquid flow
Solution Approach 1:
The third electrode acts as a mediator that generates electroosmotic flow to counteract surface tension effects. This intermediary element creates a driving force that maintains continuous sample liquid flow through the micropore, overcoming the hindering effect of surface tension while preserving detection accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The third electrode ensures continuous sample liquid flow by generating electroosmotic flow that compensates for interruptions caused by surface tension. This maintains the continuity of both sample liquid flow and particle passage, enabling uninterrupted detection while preserving flow consistency.
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 configuration enhances the accuracy and sensitivity of particle detection, enabling efficient analysis of bacteria, viruses, and other bioagents, contributing to epidemic disease prevention and food safety by ensuring reliable particle passage through the micropore and continuous sample liquid flow.
Implementation Method 1
a third electrode provided in the first flow channel downstream of the first electrode
Implementation Method 2
a change in an electrical signal is detected when a particle of the sample liquid passes through a micropore formed in the channel
Data Source
AI summary
According to one embodiment, a semiconductor analysis chip for detecting a particle in a sample liquid includes a semiconductor substrate, a first flow channel provided in a surface portion of the semiconductor substrate, a second flow channel provided in a surface portion of the semiconductor substrate, part of the second flow channel contacting or intersecting the first flow channel, a micropore provided in a contact portion or an intersection of the first and second flow channels, and configured to permit the particle to pass therethrough, a first electrode provided in the first flow channels, a second electrode provided in the second passage, and a third electrode provided in the first flow channel downstream of the first electrode.