SUMMARY
UCLA researchers in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry have developed a method to interferometrically measure temporally and spectrally resolved photoluminescence with single photon sensitivity, capable of diminishing constant background signals (including detector dark noise) across wavelengths ranging from near ultraviolet to shortwave infrared.
BACKGROUND
Time resolved photoluminescence is a tool commonly used to quantify and identify molecular electronic states, drive development of optoelectronics and image biological processes through sensing techniques. However, it is often difficult to distinguish between spectral features, complicating deconvolution of underlying processes. Furthermore, time resolved photoluminescence is often limited to the near ultraviolet or near infrared regimes and strong luminescence sources can washout weaker signals. In addition, current spectrometers utilize monochromators (single wavelength) or filters which selectively look at a specific wavelengths and can give incomplete analyses of unknown samples. Therefore, there is a need for improved methodology capable of assessing photoluminescence at a broad wavelength range and without sample bias.
INNOVATION
UCLA researchers in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry have developed a methodology to perform temporal and spectral photoluminescence measurements with single photon sensitivities. The method is capable of measuring a wide array of wavelengths ranging from near ultraviolet to shortwave infrared with low background signals. Selective filtering enables the examination of unknown spectral signals, including systems with signal overlap, which could prove invaluable for biological sensing. Importantly, weak signals are also detectable, including those arising from triplets and defects which are relevant to modern optoelectronics development but difficult to assess. Overall, the disclosure conveys a uniquely sensitive method for wide spectral range assessment of photoluminescent phenomenon.
POTENTIAL APPLICATIONS
- Biological (in vivo and in vitro) imaging
- Medical imaging
- Chemical analysis
- Material analysis
- Biochemical processes analysis
ADVANTAGES
- Broad spectral analysis- near UV (~390 nm) to shortwave IR (~2 μm)
- Complete sample analysis
- Single photon sensitivity
- Low background
- Deconvolution of mixed signals
- Sensitive for weak signals
RELATED MATERIALS
DEVELOPMENT TO DATE
First successful demonstration of photoluminescence measurement with single photon sensitivity near ultraviolet to short infrared wavelengths.