SUMMARY
UCLA researchers in the Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering and have developed a device for extensional rheology that can be used to accurately characterize small volumes (μL) of polymers/biopolymers.
BACKGROUND
Extensional rheology, or response of a material to a pulling force, is an important part of characterizing polymer solutions. Rheology provides information on the visco-elastic properties of complex fluids which are directly related to the molecular structure of the fluid. One of the biggest challenges in performing rheology on biological samples, however, is the availability of sample material for analysis. Since sample isolation can be expensive and difficult, new methods are needed that reduce the required sample volume for accurate characterization.
INNOVATION
The invention describes a method that can characterize polymer/biopolymer solution in small (μL) volumes accurately. The method uses a modified tensiometer that requires less than 10 microliters of sample for extensional rheology measurements. By requiring such a small volume for expensive biological molecule samples (up to $20,000/mL), this method greatly reduces the otherwise cost prohibitive characterization of commercial biopolymers.
POTENTIAL APPLICATIONS
ADVANTAGES
RELATED MATERIALS
STATUS OF DEVELOPMENT
First successful demonstration has been completed