Optical Characterization of an Intra-Arterial Light and Drug Delivery System for Photodynamic Therapy of Atherosclerotic Plaque

Although the versatility of photodynamic therapy (PDT) is well established, the technical aspects of light delivery systems vary significantly depending on the targeted organ. This article describes the optical properties of a light and drug delivery system (catheter and light diffuser) suitable for intra-arterial PDT by using a planar imaging goniometer to measure the full radiance longitudinal and angular profiles at the surface of the diffuser at 652 nm. The results show that the system emits almost Lambertian and “top hat” profiles, an interesting feature to determine the light dosimetry in the many vascular applications of PDT.

Non-Conventional Technologies Selection

Micro-engineering is nowadays a key industrial area with applications is a wide range of products and sectors. The need for a multiplicity of products fostered the development of several processes and combinations of processes in the world of micro-engineering. There are different feasible alternatives to produce the same kind of product. The manufacturing cost is usually the decision factor to select the best alternative among them. But cost is affected by dozens of factors and if not properly modelled causes controversy in so complex decisions. In this chapter, the application of process-based cost modelling is proposed as the engine to identify the best performance spaces for each alternative, using its potential for sensitive analysis of uncertain and/or critical parameters. To illustrate the approach, a case study is developed analyzing four alternatives for the production of a light diffuser with micro-features imbibed, involving micro-injection molding, hot-embossing, micromachining, and powder-injection molding.

A novel light diffuser based on the combined morphology of polymer networks and polymer balls in a polymer dispersed liquid crystals film

A novel light diffuser based on a thermally cured polymer dispersed liquid crystal film was made by thermally curing epoxy monomers with thiols and polyamine in a solution of monomers and liquid crystals between two transparent polyethylene terephthalates.

Improved optical properties of silica/UV-cured polymer composite films made of hollow silica nanoparticles with a hierarchical structure for light diffuser film applications

This study successfully improved the optical properties of silica/UV-cured polymer composite films made of hollow silica nanoparticles having a hierarchical structure.