Piezoelectric-based nanopore device for the active control of the motion of polymers through the same
US8039250B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 15, 2010 |
| Grant date | Oct 18, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Apr 13, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/42
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Apparatus, system, and methods are provided for utilizing piezoelectric material for controlling a polymer through a nanopore. A reservoir is formed filled with conductive fluid. A membrane is formed that separates the reservoir. A nanopore is formed through the membrane. The membrane comprises electrical conductive layers, piezoelectric layers, and insulating layers. The piezoelectric layers are operative to control a size of the nanopore for clamping/releasing a polymer as well as to control the thickness of part of the membrane when a voltage is applied to the piezoelectric layers. Combinations of clamping/releasing the polymer and changing the thickness of part of the membrane can move a polymer through the nanopore at any electrically controlled speed and also stretch or break a polymer in the nanopore.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.