Objective
Fiber-top sensors (D. Iannuzzi et al., patent application number PCT/NL2005/000816) are a new generation of miniaturized devices obtained by carving tiny movable structures directly on the cleaved edge of an optical fiber. The light coupled into the fiber allows measurements of the position of the micromechanical parts with sub-nanometer accuracy. The monolithic structure of the device, the absence of electronic contacts on the sensing head, and the simplicity of the working principle offer unprecedented opportunities for the development of scientific instruments for applications in and outside research laboratories. For example, a fiber-top scanning probe microscope (also in the form of a PenFM, where a fiber-top atomic force microscope would be incorporated in a pen-like stylus) could be routinely used in harsh environments and could be easily handled by untrained personnel or through remote control systems – a fascinating perspective for utilization, among others, in surgery rooms and space missions. Similarly, the development of fiber-top biochemical sensors could be exploited for the implementation of portable equipment for in vivo and Point of Care medical testing. Fiber-top sensors could be used for the measurement of parameters of medical relevance in interstitial fluid or in blood – an interesting opportunity for intensive care monitoring and early detection of life-threatening diseases. This scenario calls for a coordinated research program dedicated to this novel generation of devices. It is my intention to forge a laboratory gravitating around fiber-top technology. My group will have the opportunity to pioneer this research area and to become the reference point in the field, on the forefront of an emerging subject that might represent a major breakthrough in the future development of micromachined sensors.
Fields of science
- engineering and technologymaterials engineeringfibers
- engineering and technologyelectrical engineering, electronic engineering, information engineeringelectronic engineeringcontrol systems
- natural sciencesphysical sciencesopticsmicroscopy
- engineering and technologyelectrical engineering, electronic engineering, information engineeringelectronic engineeringsensors
- natural sciencesphysical sciencesopticsfibre optics
Keywords
Call for proposal
ERC-2007-StG
See other projects for this call
Funding Scheme
ERC-SG - ERC Starting GrantHost institution
1081 HV Amsterdam
Netherlands