Lab-in-a-Smartphone: Spectroscopic-Based Sensing Utilizing Linear Variable Filters for Point-of-Care Applications

Abstract

A compact analysis platform for detecting liquid phase absorption and emission spectra using a set of optical linear variable filters atop a CMOS image sensor is presented. This combination has achieved detection of fluorescence down to 0.28 nM for quantum dot emitters and 32 ng/mL for a near-infrared dye. Compared to commercially available spectrometers, the benchtop demonstration shows comparable or even better performance with potentially better portability and reduction in cost for point-of-care applications. Based on the benchtop demonstration, a design suitably sized for use with a smartphone platform is conceptualized and fabricated.