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Updated: May 11, 2026
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A Microfluidic Chip for ICPMS Sample Introduction
Published on: March 5, 2015
Field-flow fractionation and hydrodynamic chromatography on a microfluidic chip.
Tyler N Shendruk1, Radin Tahvildari, Nicolas M Catafard
1Department of Physics, University of Ottawa, MacDonald Hall, K1N 6N5 Ottawa, Canada.
Analytical Chemistry
|May 9, 2013
Summary
We demonstrate novel field-flow fractionation and hydrodynamic chromatography for colloids in microchannels. Our findings reveal new operational modes and the impact of wall interactions on particle separation, enhancing microfluidic device design.
Area of Science:
- Colloid and Interface Science
- Microfluidics
- Separation Science
Background:
- Field-flow fractionation (FFF) and hydrodynamic chromatography (HCh) are key separation techniques.
- Understanding particle behavior in microchannels is crucial for advanced separations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate colloid elution in microchannels using gravitational field-flow fractionation and hydrodynamic chromatography.
- To explore the operational modes and retention behavior of various colloid sizes.
Main Methods:
- Experimental analysis using video microscopy.
- Mesoscopic simulations for theoretical validation.
- Utilizing 18 μm microchannels for colloid separation.
Main Results:
- Experimental demonstration of Faxén-mode field-flow fractionation and transitions between HCh and normal-mode FFF.
- Retention ratios are reduced above the steric-inversion point due to increased drag.
- Theory accurately predicts retention ratios when including wall drag effects.
Conclusions:
- Hydrodynamic interactions with channel walls significantly influence colloid retention and separation.
- Microfluidic channel size can be tuned for high selectivity by considering wall effects.
- Particle velocimetry must account for wall-induced lag in confined systems.
