Development of an Optical System for Measuring Fluorescence Lifetimes

Abstract

This project presents the design of a cost-effective, portable, and simplified fluorescence detection system for measuring fluorescence lifetime decay as an alternative to the available methods currently in use. There are multiple systems available to detect fluorescence of a sample, but they contain multiple parts and require expensive equipment in order to function. Due to the number of parts needed, the cost of implementing those fluorescence lifetime decay measuring systems are high. The fluorescence measuring system will be simplified into four main components that are interchangeable based on the application needs.In this project, a simple fluorescence measuring system will be used to detect a sample of quantum dots and a sample of an organic based dye and examine the results for system feasibility. Future works may include testing of various time decaying quantum dots, and testing of various other light detection devices, such as other avalanche photodiodes (APD) or photomultiplier tubes (PMTs).