Surface Functionalisation

Surface functionalisation is a critical aspect of many applications in optics, photonics, sensors, biomedical devices, and more.

Surface functionalisation takes a material whose surface chemistry is dictated by that material's surface composition and surface properties, and attaches to it specific chemical functional groups, or biochemical functionalities, to impart tailored physical, chemical, or biochemical properties to that material's surface. 

Acetyl-coenzyme A (Acetyl-coA) biochemical, molecular model

By manipulating a material's optical properties or introducing specific functional groups that interact in controlled ways with molecules in fluids, we can enhance its capabilities. This includes incorporating receptors for chemical or biochemical specificity on sensor surfaces.

The powerful combination of capabilities available at Optofab Adelaide and at the Institute for Photonics and Advanced Sensing (IPAS), coupled with Optofab's competence for synthetic and surface chemistry in the functionalisation of glass fibres, allows us to provide cutting-edge surface functionalisation, paving the way for novel optical-based fibre sensors.

This collaborative effort underscores Optofab's commitment to advancing fibre-based platform technologies with applications in human health, environmental monitoring, industrial processes, and defence systems.

 

Synthesis of customised molecules for surface functionalisation

Customised molecule synthesis for surface functionalization enables precise tailoring of molecular structures to match specific surface characteristics, ensuring optimal compatibility and performance. To support this, we have the following instruments.

  • Microwave peptide synthesizer

    Brand and model
    CEM liberty 1

    Key features
    It is a fully automated system for the synthesis of peptides. It allows the use of microwave energy for both coupling and deprotection steps.  This instrument also allows programmable cleavage and automated resin addition. 

  • Microwave synthesizer for general organic synthesis

    Brand and model
    CEM Discover and explorer SP

    Specification
    Operating volume:

    • 0.2 – 7 ml (10 ml pressure vial)
    • 2 – 25 ml (35 ml pressure vial)
    • 15 – 50 ml (80 ml pressure vial)
    • Open vessel 5 – 125 ml round bottom flask (ambient pressure)
    • Power: 300 W (maximum)
    • Temperature: 40 – 300°C

    This instrument is fitted with compressed air cooling system

  • Semi-preparative HPLC

    Brand and model
    Gilson

    Key features
    Capacity per run is approximately less than 10 mg/mL of sample. It has automated sampling and fraction collection functions.

  • Freeze dryer

    Brand and model
    Christ Alpha 1-2 LD Freeze Dryer

  • Glovebox system

    Brand and model
    PureLab HE Glovebox

    Specification

    • Size: 1250mm W x 780mm D x 900mm H
    • Purge gas: nitrogen

    Application
    This glovebox is designated for performing air or moisture-sensitive reactions

  • Solvent purifier

    Brand
    PureSolv Micro Solvent Purification System

    Solvent
    Toluene, dichloromethane, tetrahydrofuran

Let's work together

OptoFab Adelaide work as a multidisciplinary team ready to help with any projects.

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