Erika Johansen, “The Evolution of the Corral Trap for Single Particle Trapping”
Mentors: Jorg Woehl and Quintus Owen, Chemistry & Biochemistry

The interactions between charged metal surfaces and electrolytes in solution is of significant interest to the One Molecule Group’s projects in DC corral trapping. The accuracy of our experiments requires synthesis of corral trap devices with specific, metal patterning and controlled trap dimensions for single particle trapping in basic aqueous solutions. The creation of our corral traps presented difficulties in consistency stemming from areas such as structural integrity and definition, trap depth control, and solution concentrations. To ensure consistent data, our techniques have evolved to improve the creation of our corral trap to limit these obstructions. Procedural improvements have included optimizing trap dimensions via polymer patterning prior to metal deposition, purification measures, and improved aqueous solution conditions. We will present the specific advancements we have added in the synthesis process of our corral trap, future adaptations to improve single particle trapping, and the prospects of this research.