Experimental Investigation of Particle Sorting Using Microfluidics Devices

Abstract

In the field of inertial microfluidics, particle movement causes various equilibrium positions in straight channels due to inertial effects. However, in terms of particle identification and sorting, this is not encouraging. A well-designed configuration, such as curvature, can influence the direction and amplitude of secondary flow. By adding hydrodynamic secondary drag, we can lower the number of equilibrium positions within microchannel cross sections. Similarly, we change the location of focused particles with in the microchannel. Using an inertia-based microchannel model for particle sorting, a detailed flow characterization analysis was done to identify particle sorting and promote standards methods in the microfluidics field. Bends of various angles have numerous uses in microfluidics, and it is essential to comprehend the flow behavior in these microchannels. Sharp-angle bends are uncommon in practice. This is due to higher pressure drop and disruption of the original laminar flow. This work represents the results of a microchannel analysis with various micro-bend angles. Four microchannel designs were studied with outlet angles of 45°,60°,90° and straight channels. Microchannel was fabricated through 3d SLA printing and through laser cutting. To investigate the influence of flow-related parameters on systems performance, testing was conducted using 10 & 20 µm, 20 & 60 µm, and 40 & 60 µm sized particles and flow rates of 50-250µL/min to simulate red and white blood cells. Furthermore, imaging was done using microscope and postprocessing was done through MATLAB Image Processing. More study is required to produce consistent test techniques for microfluidic devices to enhance medical diagnostic field performance and promote revolution in the biomedical industry.