This presentation will detail new sensor concepts that make use of the dynamic refractory optics of complex multicomponent liquid emulsions (droplets). These materials behave as lenses that can focus, diffuse, or direct transmitted and/or emitted light. By integrating receptors and ligands at the interfaces of droplets we can transduce biomolecular events. This enables the ability to measure active enzyme concentrations, detect pathogens (E. coli and Salmonella), and measure the concentrations of small molecules such as caffeine. Recognition elements are assembled <i>in situ</i> at the interfaces by both covalent and dynamic covalent reactions. Methods using the detection of directional emission from droplets will be presented that allow for ultra-trace detection of pathogens at rates that are compatible with the production of processed food. These methods have prospects to prevent distribution of pathogen tainted food to avoid costly recalls and protect society from harm.

Supramolecular chemistry of interfaces: Dynamic droplet sensors

256th National Meeting (2018)

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