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Enhanced Detection of Protein in Urine by Droplet Evaporation on a Superhydrophobic Plastic
Author(s) -
McLane Jolie,
Wu Chun,
Khine Michelle
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
advanced materials interfaces
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.671
H-Index - 65
ISSN - 2196-7350
DOI - 10.1002/admi.201400034
Subject(s) - materials science , evaporation , footprint , fabrication , nanotechnology , adhesion , molecule , chemical engineering , chromatography , composite material , chemistry , organic chemistry , medicine , paleontology , physics , alternative medicine , pathology , engineering , biology , thermodynamics
Protein in urine can be detected using a simple colorimetric output by evaporating droplets on a superhydrophobic (SH) surface. Evaporation on a SH surface allows fluid to dramatically concentrate; the weak surface adhesion allows the droplet of fluid to constantly decrease its footprint area and contact diameter. On a SH surface, pure water completely evaporates. Molecules in solution, however, are confined to a footprint that is 8.5 times smaller than the original and are greatly concentrated. By concentrating molecules, a 160 times improved detection sensitivity is achieved compared to controls. With the low‐cost fabrication method and simple technique, highly sensitive detection can be achieved in a low‐cost platform. Utility is demonstrated by detecting protein in urine in the pre‐eclampsia range (150–300 μgmL −1 ) for pregnant women.