Innovative micro-nano fluidic Lab-On-Chip devices and materials for biomedical, diagnostic and sensing applications

Nanomed lab activity focuses on several aspects related to the “Nano-World”: (i) planning, development and functionalization of micro and nano-fluidic Lab-On-a-Chips (LOCs) devices for bio-medical and diagnostic applications [1-2]; (ii) Focused Ion Beam (FIB) surfaces patterning, to create optical sensors based on porous Silicon (pSi) and Silicon Nanowires (SiNW) [3]; (iii) FIB fabrication of brand new physical-leak sensors based on Silicon Nitride (Si3N4) nano-holes for the calibration of leak-detection instruments [4]. Micro and nano structures constitute a powerful and versatile comply to the growing need for innovative solutions in different nano-biotechnological areas such as bio-medical research, in-leak proof systems (vacuum, cryogenic storage equipment) and advanced optical sensors. Nanomed’s novelty and point of strength rely on the materials used for the micro and nano structures fabrication. Actually most of them are made of PolyDiMethylSiloxane (PDMS), a versatile elastomeric low cost polymer. Nanomed’s final aim is to achieve a precise control of micro and nano structures size and functionality, thus allowing fine manipulation and sensing capabilities up to the single-molecule level