Development of advanced micro-nanotopological platforms for point-of-care diagnostics

Odetade, David Femi (2025). Development of advanced micro-nanotopological platforms for point-of-care diagnostics. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

Topologically designed nano- and micro-structures have emerged as powerful tools for enhancing the detection of trace molecules in point-of-care (P-o-C) diagnostic devices, particularly for diseases such as traumatic brain injury (TBI). These structures, often fabricated using photolithography that includes photoresists on silicon wafers, offer precise control over certain parameters and significantly improve the detection of low-concentration biomarkers.
A key application of these structures is surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), which amplifies the Raman signals by several orders of magnitude. By carefully designing the topology of metal-coated structures, it is possible to create highly localised electric fields that enhance the
Raman scattering of molecules adsorbed on their surfaces. This enables the detection of trace biomarkers, providing early diagnosis and intervention for conditions such as TBI.
The research presented here explores the optimisation of topological nano- and micro-structures via photolithography to maximise SERS signal enhancement. By analysing various design parameters, including the shape, size, and arrangement of structures, optimal configurations were
identified, which led to significant improvements in the detection of benzenethiol molecules and some TBI biomarkers. The impact of different metallic coatings, such as gold and silver, on SERS performance and the choice of laser wavelength to obtain high-quality Raman spectra was
investigated.
The developed structures have the potential to revolutionise P-o-C diagnostics by enabling rapid, accurate, and sensitive detection of a wide range of biomarkers. This rapid fabrication method using photolithography holds promise for improving healthcare outcomes and facilitating early
intervention in various diseases, including TBI.

Type of Work:	Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)
Award Type:	Doctorates > Ph.D.
Supervisor(s):	Supervisor(s) Email ORCID Goldberg Oppenheimer, Pola UNSPECIFIED UNSPECIFIED Smith, David UNSPECIFIED UNSPECIFIED Dennis, Mark UNSPECIFIED UNSPECIFIED Boyer, Vincent UNSPECIFIED UNSPECIFIED
Licence:	All rights reserved
College/Faculty:	Colleges > College of Engineering & Physical Sciences
School or Department:	Physics & Astronomy
Funders:	Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council
Subjects:	Q Science > Q Science (General) Q Science > QC Physics T Technology > T Technology (General) T Technology > TP Chemical technology
URI:	http://etheses.bham.ac.uk/id/eprint/15998

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