A SAW-driven modular acoustofluidic tweezer

Area of Science:

• Acoustofluidics
• MEMS Technology
• Surface Acoustic Waves

Background:

• Conventional acoustofluidic tweezers (AFTs) are single-purpose devices limiting reusability and versatility.
• Existing AFTs suffer from anisotropic surface acoustic wave (SAW) propagation, optical birefringence, and limited transmittance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a modular SAW-driven acoustofluidic tweezer system.
• To enhance device reusability, versatility, and ease of operation through modular design.

Main Methods:

• A modular design with replaceable interdigital transducer (IDT) modules and a function module on a common base.
• Utilizing standardized interfaces for module connection, enabling flexible assembly.
• Employing 128° Y-cut LiNbO3 for efficient SAW generation and coupling into a function module for Lamb wave conversion.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated reliable particle/cell patterning, separation, and concentration.
• Proved the replaceability and reusability of different modules.
• Highlighted advantages including simple assembly, ease of operation, and application flexibility.

Conclusions:

• The modular acoustofluidic tweezer offers a versatile and reusable platform for microfluidic applications.
• This design overcomes limitations of traditional integrated AFTs, paving the way for flexible acoustofluidic manipulation.