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A Microfluidic-based Hydrodynamic Trap for Single Particles
Published on: January 21, 2011
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Visualizing the hydrodynamics in sieve-based lateral displacement systems
J P Dijkshoorn1,2, J C de Valença2, R M Wagterveld2
1Laboratory of Food Process Engineering, Wageningen University, Bornse Weilanden 9, 6708WG, Wageningen, The Netherlands.
Scientific Reports
|August 29, 2018
Summary
Deterministic lateral displacement (DLD) systems use flow lanes for particle separation. Adjusting flow conditions, not just geometry, controls particle displacement, enhancing DLD
Area of Science:
- Fluid Dynamics
- Particle Separation Technology
Background:
- Deterministic lateral displacement (DLD) systems separate particles using structured flow lanes.
- Established DLD geometric criteria are thought essential for particle displacement.
- Previous studies achieved separation in simplified DLD systems deviating from criteria.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the hydrodynamics in simplified DLD systems.
- Understand why simplified DLD systems achieve particle displacement.
- Explore alternative methods for controlling DLD separation.
Main Methods:
- Experimental visualization of flow lanes.
- Measurement of local flow velocities using microparticle image velocimetry (µPIV).
- Comparison with 2D fluid dynamics simulations.
Main Results:
- Flow lane size strongly correlates with local flow velocities (Vy and Vx).
- Hydrodynamics significantly influence flow lane characteristics.
- Simplified DLD systems achieve separation by manipulating hydrodynamics.
Conclusions:
- DLD geometric design criteria are one method to control hydrodynamics, not the only one.
- Particle separation in DLD is achievable through hydrodynamic control beyond strict geometric rules.
- Findings increase DLD technique flexibility and industrial scalability.
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