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Separating Beads and Cells in Multi-channel Microfluidic Devices Using Dielectrophoresis and Laminar Flow
Published on: February 4, 2011
Dielectrophoretic choking phenomenon in a converging-diverging microchannel
Biomicrofluidics
|July 21, 2010
Summary
Particles can get stuck in microchannels due to dielectrophoresis. This study reveals that dielectrophoretic choking in microchannels depends on electric field strength, particle size, and zeta potential.
Area of Science:
- Physics
- Electrical Engineering
- Fluid Mechanics
Background:
- Particles smaller than microchannel throat sizes can become trapped.
- This trapping is linked to negative dc dielectrophoresis from non-uniform electric fields.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the conditions for dielectrophoretic (DEP) choking in converging-diverging microchannels.
- Quantify the relationship between DEP choking and key parameters.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a finite-element model to simulate particle-fluid-electric field interactions.
- Analyzed dielectrophoretic (DEP) choking in microchannels.
Main Results:
- DEP choking occurs with high electric field non-uniformity.
- High particle-to-throat size ratio promotes DEP choking.
- High particle zeta potential relative to the microchannel also leads to choking.
Conclusions:
- DEP choking is a critical phenomenon in microchannels.
- Electric field non-uniformity, particle size, and zeta potential are key factors influencing DEP choking.
