Biosensors
Biophotonics Research at UCF

The researchers are also developing sensors that can detect chemical and biological agents, like Anthrax. These sensors are more sensitive than existing detection methods, and are able to identify lesser-known and more virulent versions of agents. They are also able to detect chemical and biological agents, simultaneously. How do they work? Tiny pieces of metal, called nanoparticles, are attached to the end of a fiber optic cable, and then light is sent through the cable and monitored. The nanoparticles at the end of the cable bond to specific biological or chemical agents, and when they do, it changes the optical properties of the nanoparticles. A fiber optic link, or even a wireless system, can be used to detect this change.

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Kevin Belfield
Department of Chemistry
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL 32816