Mechanical-activated digital microfluidics with gradient surface wettability. Issue 2 (12th December 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Qi, Lin; Niu, Ye; Ruck, Cody; Zhao, Yi
• Is Part Of: Lab on a chip. Volume 19:Issue 2(2019)
• Page Start: 223
• Page End: 232
• Publication Date: 2018-12-12
• Subjects: Miniature electronic equipment -- Periodicals; Combinatorial chemistry -- Periodicals; Biotechnology -- Periodicals; 543.0813
• DOI: 10.1039/c8lc00976g
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1473-0197

Abstract

Abstract : Long-distance droplet motion and selective droplet manipulation on repeated hydrophobic surface patterns with gradient wettability by in-plane cyclic vibration. Abstract : This paper reports a simple yet effective droplet manipulation approach that can displace aqueous droplets over a long distance within the working plane. Repeated patterns with surface gradient wettability were created on a super-hydrophobic surface by laser irradiation. Aqueous droplets as small as 2 μL are moved on the patterns over a long distance under in-plane symmetric cyclic vibration. Typical droplet manipulation actions including droplet movement along a pre-determined trajectory, droplet mixing, and selective movement of multiple droplets were successfully demonstrated. Biochemical detection using this approach was demonstrated via a bicinchoninic acid (BCA) assay. This approach allows for long-distance droplet movement and simultaneous manipulation of multiple droplets without sacrificing the manipulation efficiency or increasing the cross-contamination risk. The device can be fabricated outside cleanrooms and operated without special equipment. It provides a solid technical basis for developing the next generation of affordable open channel microfluidic devices for various applications.