Sensing device set to simplify disease diagnosis

The low power, low cost infrared emitter created by Cambridge CMOS Sensors (CCMOSS) relies on gas sensing technology to identify more than 35 different biomarkers present in exhaled breath, and is being developed for use as a non invasive medical testing device. "Non invasive breath analysis is an area of great potential for diagnosing and monitoring a wide range of medical conditions," said Florin Udrea, CCMOSS' ceo and co founder. "Testing is easy and painless, and can be repeated as often as needed." While a number of similar devices are currently in the research and development phase, Udrea says CCMOSS' technology is different because it uses broadband infrared radiation to make the detection of biomarkers possible in a single device. The device contains miniature heaters, or microhotplates, which can reach temperatures up to 700°C in a fraction of a second (high enough to emit infrared radiation and allow the sensing material to react with gas molecules). Using broadband infrared, the gas sensing technology can detect wavelengths between two and 14 microns, corresponding to a wide range of biomarkers. A filter is applied on top of the detector so that only infrared radiation of a particular wavelength can get through. In addition to medical applications, CCMOSS is exploring how the technology could be used in consumer electronics, industrial security and automotive applications. Udrea claims the manufacturing process is highly scalable and cost effective, with yields above 99%.