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Updated: Aug 13, 2026

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A Microfluidic Chip for ICPMS Sample Introduction
Published on: March 5, 2015
On-chip high-speed sorting of micron-sized particles for high-throughput analysis
D Holmes1, M E Sandison, N G Green
1University of Southampton, School of Electronics and Computing Sciences, Highfield, Southampton, SO17 8AB, UK.
Summary
A novel particle sorting chip utilizes dielectrophoretic forces to rapidly deflect particles into separate microfluidic channels. This high-speed, automated system demonstrates efficient separation of different particle types.
Area of Science:
- Microfluidics
- Biotechnology
- Particle Manipulation
Background:
- Accurate particle manipulation is crucial for various applications, including diagnostics and cell sorting.
- Existing microfluidic sorting methods often face limitations in speed and automation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a new microfluidic particle sorting chip design.
- To demonstrate high-speed particle deflection and separation using dielectrophoretic forces.
Main Methods:
- The chip integrates a dielectrophoretic gate within microfluidic channels.
- Particles are focused using dielectrophoretic forces and then deflected into outlet channels at a T- or Y-junction.
- Electrodes generate dielectrophoretic forces for particle redirection.
Main Results:
- The device achieves high-speed deflection of 6 micrometer diameter particles at a rate of 300 per second in a 40 micrometer channel.
- Demonstrated automated sorting by successfully separating fluorescent from non-fluorescent latex beads.
Conclusions:
- The developed dielectrophoretic particle sorting chip offers a high-throughput and automated solution for particle separation.
- This technology has potential applications in various fields requiring precise particle manipulation and sorting.
