Freeze-dried reagents for real-time PCR

This proposal describes a new automated precision polymer coating technology based onsupercritical fluid processing. Highly uniform and reproducible polymer films and coatingsare produced using a simple spray-on method known as Rapid Expansion of SupercriticalSolutions or (RESS). The deposition process is automated through the use of a rotarystage and mechanical shutter and the entire process is controlled from a computerworkstation. In phase I, polymer films will be applied to Surface Acoustic Wave (SAW)crystals and the film properties and sensor performance will be characterized toestablish the feasibility of using the technique for the mass production of SAW-basedchemical sensors. In phase II, a prototype automated precision coating system will bedeveloped and commercialized.New polymer coating technologies are needed for a variety of applications.Potential commercial applications of chemical sensors developed using this coatingtechnology include environmental characterization, military surveillance, medicaldiagnostics and industrial pollution monitoring. Additional commerical applicationsof this technology include advanced optical coatings, telecommunications andcorrosion protection.