Sandia
Canals That Lead to Analysis
Microfluidics stands among the more potent sensor approaches. Researchers at Sandia National Laboratory use the science in a lab-on-a-chip that detects multiple biochemical and biological threats. Hemispherical canals of various sizes, from roughly the diameter of a human hair to a tenth of that size, are formed on silicon or glass. From the speed that a liquid or gas flows through the different sizes of curving channels, the sensor can flag the identity of a toxin or other agent. Microfluidic technology promises versatility and economy, so these sensors could get sprinkled around water reservoirs and airports.