NIRT: Nanoengineered Responsive Polymer Surfaces for Micro/Nanofluidic Bioanalytical Systems

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NIRT: Nanoengineered Responsive Polymer Surfaces for Micro/NanofluidicBioanalytical SystemsAbstract: We propose to explore nanoengineered stimulus-responsivepolymer nanolayers as an innovative platform for surface modification ofmicro/nanofluidics-based bioanalytical systems. Surface-grafted polymersthat exhibit large changes in swelling and wettability properties inresponse to external stimuli (e.g. temperature) will be synthesized andcharacterized. Microfabrication techniques for generation of patternedresponsive polymer nanolayers will be developed to enable functionalmicro/nanofluidic bioanalytical devices. The utility and impact of thisresponsive polymer-based surface modification technique will bedemonstrated by its application to micro/nanofluidic manipulation andcontrol. Specifically, we will explore thermally responsive polymernanolayers for generation, splitting, merging, mixing, and transport offemtoliter-volume droplets. Thermally responsive polymers will also beused for microchip chromatography, where sequence-specific separation ofDNA oligomers will be achieved using specialized surfactants. Theproposed NIRT will be integrated with graduate and undergraduateeducation, and will be actively involved in outreach events in thePittsburgh area.