The characteristic bright yellow of gold had attracted the interest of manufacturers since ancient times. Nowadays, another interesting phenomenon of gold was found, one that enables not only tuning its color but also using it as a sensor.

It was found that gold has a unique spectral response to light when we reduce it to nanoscale size. The conducting electrons of the Nano-metal collectively oscillate, a phenomenon known as a Plasmon resonance. When these resonances exist, the absorption and scattering intensities can be enhanced by several times relative to non-plasmonic materials. The plasmonic behavior makes the Nano-gold highly useful in molecular detection.

 In our technology, we produce patterns based on Nano-gold. The patterns are simulated at first to enhance the scattering at the spectral range of interest. The patterning is fabricated utilizing focused ion beam (FIB) milling. The patterns for high-resolution Nano structuring, including advanced beam path generation and large-area automation, are well-established via Python scripting. Novel designs can thus be manufactured by FIB-based rapid-prototyping.

The engineered nanostructures are coupled with a single-chain variable fragment (scFv) performing as antibody for high selectivity and specificity. The biosensors are turned on when we irradiate it with monochromatic laser. The output is a scattered light that interacted with the biomarkers. Each biomarker gives a specific optical scattered signature. The obtained optical spectrum is collected and analyzed with artificial intelligence algorithm for quick and reliable answer. The biosensor is practical, sensitive, specific, and precise low-cost portable device to detect biomarkers, and holds a potential to be an alternative to conventional techniques.

The biosensor will include a disposable tablet, on which the sample will be placed. Each tablet will contain uniquely designed nanostructures, for the desired use. One tablet could include structures for several tests, bundled up together and performed in one sample.

 The biosensor will be designed according to specific use. It can be built in a carry on case for portable purposes, as a stand-alone device in the MD’s office, it can be designed as an appended device in production line, or as an attached tool on autonomous vehicle