Peter Lo

Title: Innovations by Inventor Peter Lo

Introduction

Peter Lo is an accomplished inventor based in Blacksburg, Virginia. He has made significant contributions to the field of chemical detection, holding three patents that showcase his innovative approach to sensor technology. His work has implications in various sectors, including environmental and biomedical applications.

Latest Patents

One of Peter Lo's latest patents is a chemical detector employing surface plasmon resonance. This highly sensitive surface plasmon waveguide sensor monitors the refractive index and thickness of thin adsorbed films. The sensor includes an optical waveguide formed by ion-exchange in a glass substrate, selective densification of substrate material, or the incorporation of high refractive index materials during the deposition of a dielectric layer. Two dielectric thin films are deposited on top of the waveguide, with the layer closest to the waveguide having a lower refractive index to form a buffer layer. The second dielectric layer, or tuning layer, has a higher refractive index, allowing for optimization of the resonance wavelength and amplitude of the resonance. The tuning layer is coated with a thin metallic layer to effect surface plasmon resonance, which can include materials such as gold, silver, or aluminum. The sensor has numerous applications in environmental and biomedical fields.

Another notable patent is the laser diode sensor, which utilizes a semiconductor diode laser with a surface active region. This laser structure includes an active layer, a cladding layer, a barrier layer, and a grating layer, all constructed on a substrate. A contact layer is deposited on the surface of the laser structure, with one or more electrodes positioned on the contact layer. The surface active region created between the two electrodes allows for interaction with chemical materials or probes, leading to changes in the laser signal that can be detected. This laser diode sensor has applications in automotive, environmental, and medical fields.

Career Highlights

Peter Lo is currently associated with the American Research Corporation of Virginia, where he continues to develop innovative sensor technologies. His work has been instrumental in advancing the capabilities of chemical detection systems.

Collaborations

Peter has collaborated with notable colleagues, including Howard P. Groger and Martin Weiss, contributing to the advancement of sensor technology through teamwork and shared expertise.

Conclusion

Peter Lo's innovative work in chemical detection and sensor technology has made a significant impact in various fields. His patents reflect a commitment to advancing scientific understanding and practical applications