Micro/nanoparticle separation via curved nano-gap device with enhanced size resolution

Area of Science:

• Materials Science
• Nanotechnology
• Analytical Chemistry

Background:

• Micro/nanoparticles are crucial in various industries and biological systems.
• Accurate particle size distribution is vital for evaluating particle properties.
• Conventional nano-gap devices face challenges in alignment and sample delivery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a curved nano-gap device (CGD) for enhanced particle size determination.
• To overcome limitations of existing nano-gap sizing techniques.
• To achieve robust and reproducible micro/nanoparticle analysis.

Main Methods:

• Fabrication of a curved nano-gap device (CGD) using microfabrication techniques.
• Precise control of nano-gap dimensions via wet etching with hydrofluoric acid.
• Integration of a pressure-driven liquid delivery system with the CGD.
• Utilizing glass deflection for enhanced size resolution.

Main Results:

• Achieved practical size resolutions of 14.5nm, a 15.7% improvement over linear devices.
• Successfully trapped and separated particles ranging from 0.5 to 10μm in diameter.
• Demonstrated accurate size estimation for trapped particles and cells.
• CGD provided reproducible instrumental setups for robust analysis.

Conclusions:

• The curved nano-gap device (CGD) offers superior size resolution and practical usability for micro/nanoparticle analysis.
• CGD overcomes the alignment and sample delivery issues of conventional devices.
• This technology enables robust and reproducible characterization of particles and cells.