Microphotonic control of single molecule fluorescence correlation spectroscopy using planar optofluidics

Abstract

We demonstrate the implementation of fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) on a chip. Full planar integration is achieved by lithographic definition of sub-picoliter excitation volumes using intersecting solid and liquid-core optical waveguides. Concentration dependent measurements on dye molecules with single molecule resolution are demonstrated. Theoretical modeling of the FCS autocorrelation function in microstructured geometries shows that the FCS behavior can be controlled over a wide range by tailoring the micro-photonic environment. The ability to perform correlation spectroscopy using silicon photonics without the need for free-space microscopy permits implementation of numerous diagnostic applications on compact planar optofluidic devices.