Kang J., Chen C.C., Smolinski J., Thomas R.A., Tucker J.D., Auner G.W.
Industrial Technology Research Institute, TW & Wayne State University, US
Keywords: cell separation, concentrator, micro particles, microfluidic, separator
We present a microfluidic particle concentrator and separator employing a large flow unit array. Each flow unit includes a nozzle, a sharp turn, a diffuser, and a flow dividing segment. After acceleration in the nozzle, the particle starts to separate in the sharp turn due to the inability to follow the fluid flow. By staggering and cascading the flow units, we can acquire concentrated fluid with particles by splitting the downstream outlet. The concept-proving flow and particle dynamics analysis was performed by using the CFD-ACE+ software. Separation of particle sizes ranging from 5 to 20 um and particles densities ranging from 600 to 2700 kg/m3 are numerically demonstrated. Denser and larger particles have higher momentum and are easier to be separated. As the particle goes smaller, the fluid drag force becomes more important and suppresses the particle separation. This type of device is promising for applications in a variety of inorganic particles and biological samples.
Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 2, Technical Proceedings of the 2006 NSTI Nanotechnology Conference and Trade Show, Volume 2
Published: May 7, 2006
Pages: 585 - 588
Industry sectors: Medical & Biotech | Sensors, MEMS, Electronics
Topic: Micro & Bio Fluidics, Lab-on-Chip
ISBN: 0-9767985-7-3