Advances in nanoparticle synthesis assisted by microfluidics.
Muhammad Mubashar Saeed1,2,3,4, Eadaoin Carthy2,3,4, Nicholas Dunne2,3,5,6,7,8,9,10,11
1ML-Labs Centre for Research Training, Dublin City University, Ireland. muhammad.saeed3@mail.dcu.ie.
Lab on a Chip
|June 6, 2025
Summary
Microfluidics offers advanced nanoparticle (NP) synthesis, surpassing traditional methods. This technology enables precise control over NP characteristics for diverse applications, with potential for AI integration.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Chemical Engineering
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Nanoparticle (NP) synthesis is crucial for pharmaceuticals, electronics, and medicine.
- Controlling NP characteristics like size and zeta potential is key for applications.
- Conventional synthesis methods face limitations in precision and scalability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review microfluidics as a superior NP synthesis alternative.
- To discuss passive and active microfluidic NP manufacturing strategies.
- To explore challenges and future directions in microfluidic NP synthesis.
Main Methods:
- Microfluidic synthesis methods are classified into passive and active techniques.
- Active methods use external energy (thermal, electrical, etc.).
- Passive methods rely on fluid dynamics (flow focusing, droplet generation).
Main Results:
- Microfluidics provides enhanced control over NP characteristics.
- Passive and active methods offer distinct advantages for NP production.
- Challenges in microfluidic NP synthesis include scalability and integration.
Conclusions:
- Microfluidics presents a powerful platform for controlled NP synthesis.
- Integrating microfluidics with machine learning can create "intelligent microfluidics" for optimized NP production.
- This approach holds significant promise for advancing nanotechnology applications.
