Biochemical sensing with terahertz microfluidics: Recent progress and future prospects

Abstract

The terahertz spectral region has garnered significant attention for label-free chemical and biological sensing due to its molecular fingerprints, low energy characteristics, and remote sensing capabilities. Microfluidic platforms are particularly attractive because microchannels are made from inexpensive biocompatible materials, preventing environmental contamination, and require only micro to nanolitre sample volumes for manipulation. These platforms offer the advantages of simple design, easy fabrication, lightweight prototypes, and real-time measurements. In this manuscript, we review state-of-the-art terahertz microfluidic technology with a focus on liquid-based high sensitivity terahertz microfluidic devices and systems. This includes material platforms, the physical mechanisms underlying their characterization methods, and fabrication methodologies. Next, we explore further applications of microfluidics, such as the optoacoustic effect, particle capture, active amplitude control, frequency-agile multiplexing, imaging, and signal processing. Finally, the future prospects of terahertz microfluidic in biochemical sensing applications are also discussed.