How does our technology work?

Stratophase's product offerings are built upon the common foundations of the optical microchip sensor, but have been developed into unique systems to provide tailored solutions for differing market sectors.

How does Stratophase's technology work in Process Status Monitoring?

At the heart of Stratophase's measurement heads there is a small optical micro chip sensor (5mm x 20mm long) immersed in the process liquid. Within this chip there are currently a minimum of 3 reflective elements — which provide multiple pieces of essential information.

The first reflector provides information on the temperature of the sensing chip and the condition of the optical link between the control unit and the measurement head. The other two reflectors on the microchip sensor are configured for sensing the material refractive index of the liquid over that specific window.

It is the combination of refractive index (RI), temperature and condition measurements that make the technology so ideal for the application. The RI of a liquid is a function of temperature, so the temperature reference is essential for meaningful data to to be gained. The ability to locate the temperature and RI sensing elements in close proximity (mm) enables the simultaneous identification of both parameters. The measurement is performed in real time, taking a reading twice a second. From the in line and real time nature of the measurements, a profile of a liquid reaction can be built up, providing essential insight into the key phases of the process.

How does Stratophase's technology work for Biodetection?

At the core of Stratophase's Biodetection platform there is an optical microchip sensor 10mm x 20mm long. Within this chip there are currently a minimum of 8 reflective elements — with two different functions. Four of the reflectors provide information on the temperature and the condition of the optical link for that particular region of the optical microchip sensor. This combines environmental information, essential for the using refractive index sensors in non-laboratory conditions, and a confirmation that the biosensor cartridge is loaded correctly. The remaining four reflectors are for sensing the refractive index on top of the chip.

Over each individual reflector, a layer is attached that has a high affinity for a target molecule or entity. If a target comes within range of the layer it is captured, thereby displacing the background liquid. As the targets inevitably have a different refractive index to the background liquid, this binding event changes the overall refractive index at the surface of the chip and hence the colour of the light reflected back. The refractive index of the liquid is a function of temperature, so the temperature reference is essential for meaningful data measurements, and to identify genuine shifts caused by specific binding as opposed to temperature or background concentration fluctuations. The ability to simply operate in unstable environmental conditions is ideal for taking diagnostic measurements out of the lab and literally into the field.

The optical microchip sensor, the associated microfluidics for sample delivery and the optical/fluidic connections are all housed in a robust and simple to use consumable cartridge, ideal for use in external uncontrolled environments.