Coating takes temperature of samples on microscope slides

The study, published online in Nature Communications, describes how an updated version of glass microscope slides can now enable scientists to see tiny objects while simultaneously measuring their temperature.

The new transparent coating has the potential to streamline and enhance scientific research worldwide, as well as have implications for computers and electronics, where products require measurement and control of heat in confined spaces.

"We have instruments that magnify incredibly small objects. And we have tools that measure heat, like infrared thermometers. But we haven't been able to combine them in a low-cost and reliable manner. This new coating takes a big step in that direction," said the study's co-lead author Ruogang Zhao, PhD, assistant professor in the University at Buffalo (UB) Department of Biomedical Engineering.

Zhao collaborated with researchers at the University of Pennsylvania, including co-lead author Liang Feng, PhD, assistant professor of materials science and engineering, and electrical and systems engineering.