Revolutionizing Liquid Volume Measurement in Microplates with Low-Coherence Interferometry
In the world of biological and chemical experiments, precision in liquid handling is crucial. Accurate measurement of liquid volumes is essential for reliable experimental outcomes. Traditional methods like gravimetric testing and photometric assays have been the go-to techniques, but they come with limitations, especially when it comes to non-destructive and high-resolution measurements. Enter low-coherence interferometry, a groundbreaking technology that offers a novel solution for measuring liquid volumes in microplates.
The Need for Precision
Microplates are standard tools in laboratories, where they are used to hold and manipulate liquid samples. The accuracy of experiments often hinges on knowing the exact volume of liquid in each well of a microplate. However, existing methods to measure these volumes either lack precision, are destructive, or cannot provide well-by-well data. For instance, gravimetric testing, though accurate, struggles with microplates due to the scale's limitations when handling the plate's weight. Other methods, like ultrasonic ranging and photometric techniques, either lack the required resolution or alter the sample irreversibly by adding dyes.
Low-Coherence Interferometry: A Game Changer
Low-coherence interferometry, as developed by Meniscense, offers a non-destructive and highly precise method for measuring liquid volumes in microplates. This technology uses light to measure the height of the liquid in a well and, by capturing the shape of the liquid's meniscus, accurately determines the volume. The Meniscense system can achieve a fill height resolution of 0.7 µm, corresponding to a volume resolution of 0.02 µL in a typical 96-well plate. This precision surpasses other non-contact methods like ultrasonic ranging.
How It Works
The system operates by directing a beam of light toward the liquid surface and analyzing the reflected light to measure the liquid's fill height. The system utilizes a Michelson interferometer setup, where light from an LED is split into two beams: one that reflects off the liquid surface and another that reflects off a reference mirror. The two beams are then recombined, and the resulting interference pattern is analyzed to determine the liquid's height with high accuracy.
One of the key advantages of this method is its ability to measure a wide range of liquids, regardless of their meniscus shape. This versatility makes it suitable for various applications in laboratory settings, where different liquids with varying properties are commonly used.
Real-World Applications
The accuracy of the Meniscense system has been demonstrated in experiments using distilled water. The system's volume measurement accuracy is within 2%, making it comparable to the best commercially available systems like ratiometric photometry. Moreover, its non-destructive nature allows for the recovery of the sample after measurement, a significant advantage over dye-based methods.
The Future of Liquid Volume Measurement
Low-coherence interferometry represents a significant advancement in the field of liquid handling in laboratories. Its ability to provide precise, non-contact, and non-destructive volume measurements in microplates positions it as a valuable tool for researchers. As this technology continues to develop, we can expect even greater accuracy and faster measurement times, further enhancing its utility in high-throughput screening and other automated laboratory workflows.
Low-coherence interferometry is set to revolutionize how laboratories measure liquid volumes in microplates. Its precision, versatility, and non-destructive nature make it a superior choice for modern laboratory practices, paving the way for more accurate and reliable experimental outcomes.
Read the full report by our founder, Hans-Christian Luedemann
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