Mischa Megens

Experimental measurement of the photonic properties of icosahedral quasicrystals

Quasicrystalline structures may have optical bandgap properties—frequency ranges in which the propagation of light is forbidden—that make them well-suited to the scientific and technological applications for which photonic crystals are normally considered. Such quasicrystals can be constructed from two or more types of dielectric material arranged in a quasiperiodic pattern whose rotational symmetry is forbidden for periodic crystals (such as five-fold symmetry in the plane and icosahedral symmetry in three dimensions). Because quasicrystals have higher point group symmetry than ordinary crystals, their gap centre frequencies are closer and the gaps widths are more uniform—optimal conditions for forming a complete bandgap that is more closely spherically symmetric. Although previous studies have focused on one-dimensional and two-dimensional quasicrystals, where exact (one-dimensional) or approximate (two-dimensional) band structures can be calculated numerically, analogous calculations for the three-dimensional case are computationally challenging and have not yet been performed. Here we circumvent the computational problem by doing an experiment. Using stereolithography, we construct a photonic quasicrystal with centimetre-scale cells and perform microwave transmission measurements. We show that three-dimensional icosahedral quasicrystals exhibit sizeable stop gaps and, despite their quasiperiodicity, yield uncomplicated spectra that allow us to experimentally determine the faces of their effective Brillouin zones. Our studies confirm that they are excellent candidates for photonic bandgap materials.

Packaging of silicon sensors for microfluidic bio-analytical applications

A new industrial concept is presented for packaging biosensor chips in disposable microfluidic cartridges to enable medical diagnostic applications. The inorganic electronic substrates, such as silicon or glass, are integrated in a polymer package which provides the electrical and fluidic interconnections to the world and provides mechanical strength and protection for out-of-lab use. The demonstrated prototype consists of a molded interconnection device (MID), a silicon-based giant magneto-resistive (GMR) biosensor chip, a flex and a polymer fluidic part with integrated tubing. The various processes are compatible with mass manufacturing and run at a high yield. The devices show a reliable electrical interconnection between the sensor chip and readout electronics during extended wet operation. Sandwich immunoassays were carried out in the cartridges with surface functionalized sensor chips. Biological response curves were determined for different concentrations of parathyroid hormone (PTH) on the packaged biosensor, which demonstrates the functionality and biocompatibility of the devices. The new packaging concept provides a platform for easy further integration of electrical and fluidic functions, as for instance required for integrated molecular diagnostic devices in cost-effective mass manufacturing.

Control of an electrowetting-based beam deflector

We experimentally demonstrate the feasibility of a small, low-power beam deflector based on electrowetting. The beam deflector deflects light by refraction at the flat interface (meniscus) between two immiscible and density-matched liquids, namely, a nonpolar oil mixture and an aqueous salt solution. The liquids are contained in a square pyramidal frustum with electrode-covered faces. The electrodes can be separately driven by voltage sources in order to control the contact angle between the meniscus and the frustum faces. By controlling the voltage on all four electrodes, a flat meniscus is obtained that can be tilted independently in two perpendicular directions. We present a capacitance-based feedback driving scheme and demonstrate that it can be used for accurate control of the meniscus shape and tilt. Independent, continuous, and accurate beam steering through an angle of ±6° was achieved on two deflection axes.

Scanning probe measurements on a magnetic bead biosensor

We experimentally demonstrate the sensitivity of an integrated detection scheme for small superparamagnetic beads, intended for medical diagnostic applications. Detection is based on the giant magnetoresistance effect of a 100×3μm2 magnetic multilayer strip. A conductive wire to magnetize the superparamagnetic beads is integrated on the same substrate. By scanning a single bead over the wires and sensor strip using an atomic force microscope, we simultaneously measure topography and sensor resistivity in a three-dimensional volume above the sensor. The observations can be explained well by means of the macroscopically measured sensor resistivity curve and the magnetization of the beads, combined with the Biot-Savart law for the magnetic field of the wire. From these encouraging results, we project that it is possible to detect even a single 300nm superparamagnetic bead on our sensor.

Photonic crystals for lighting applications

Summary form only given. Solid state lighting is developing rapidly, offering great promise in applications from displays to genereal lighting. Both in organic and inorganic LEDs are pursued, for ever increasing brightness and efficiency. A crucial aspect of the efficient operation of these devices is the extraction of the light from the emissive layer. After a brief overview of more conventional approaches, we discuss the influence of photonic crystal structures on the emission, and their potential for improving efficiency and beam shaping. We conclude with some developments for the more distant future, such as full three-dimensional photonic crystals and non-periodic structures.