Ocola L.E., Pan W.C., Kuo M., Tirumala V.R., Reiss B.D., Firestone M.A., Auciello O.
Argonne National Laboratory, US
Keywords: biomolecules, nanochannels, nanofluidics, peptides, PZT, surface functionalization
We recently started a program at Argonne to exploit patterned, polarizable ferroelectric surfaces, such as lead zirconium titanate (PZT), as a means to create field-responsive inorganic-biomolecule interfaces to study and manipulate biomatter on surfaces. In this paper we will discuss the integration of nanochannels on the surface of PZT films and their selective functionalization to create nanovalves to control nanofluidic flow. Microfluidic devices have been fabricated using a variety of methods, ranging from thermal decomposition of buried patterned channels, to fabricating trenches via plasma etch or hot embossing followed by trench capping. Our work focuses on an alternative method by using a bilayer resist in an inverted configuration normally used for T- and Gamma- gate fabrication. This method is capable of yielding sub-100 nm nanochannels with high aspect ratios and sub-500nm alignment. We have recently demonstrated that the polarization hysteresis loop of PZT is the same before and after exposure to an aqueous environment. This opens the possibility of selective surface modification of PZT via coupling of a wide range of biomolecules (e.g., peptides, proteins) and the use of the electric-field-responsive properties of PZT to manipulate the function (e.g., orientation) of the tethered biomolecules. We have used phage display techniques to evolve specific peptide motifs that selectively bind to PZT. The optimum heptapeptide that facilitates both the attachment of functional biological molecules to the surface of PZT has been identified.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 3, Technical Proceedings of the 2005 NSTI Nanotechnology Conference and Trade Show, Volume 3
Published: May 8, 2005
Pages: 439 - 442
Industry sector: Sensors, MEMS, Electronics
Topic: MEMS & NEMS Devices, Modeling & Applications
ISBN: 0-9767985-2-2