A bioinspired bubble removal method in microchannels based on angiosperm xylem embolism repair.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Fluid Dynamics
• Bioinspired Engineering

Background:

• Bubbles in microchannels impede performance in biomedical devices like microfluidic immunoassays and point-of-care tests.
• Bubble accumulation leads to reduced sensitivity, inaccurate results, and device failure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel, bioinspired method for continuous bubble removal in microfluidic systems.
• To address the limitations of existing bubble elimination techniques by offering a passive, equipment-free solution.

Main Methods:

• Inspired by the embolism repair mechanism in angiosperm xylem conduits.
• The proposed method facilitates continuous bubble dissolution within microchannels.

Main Results:

• Effective bubble removal demonstrated across a broad flow rate range (2 µL/min to 850 µL/min).
• Maintained flow stability and continuity without the need for external equipment.
• Showcased significant bubble removal stability for both Newtonian and non-Newtonian fluids, including high-viscosity (6.76 Pa·s) and low-velocity (152 nL/min) conditions.

Conclusions:

• The bioinspired bubble removal method offers a robust and versatile solution for microfluidic applications.
• Potential applications include 3D printing, implantable devices, virus detection, and microscale reactors.