Work

Syringe-vacuum microfluidics: A portable technique to create monodisperse emulsions

Year: 2011

Type: article

Abstract: We present a simple method for creating monodisperse emulsions with microfluidic devices. Unlike conventional approaches that require bulky pumps, control computers, and expertise with device physics to operate devices, our method requires only the microfluidic device and a hand-operated syringe. The fluids needed for the emulsion are loaded into the device inlets, while the syringe is used to create a vacuum at the device outlet; this sucks the fluids through the channels, generating the drops. By controlling the hydrodynamic resistances of the channels using hydrodynamic resistors and valves, we are able to control the properties of the drops. This provides a simple and highly portable method for creating monodisperse emulsions.

Source: Biomicrofluidics

DOI: 10.1063/1.3567093

Authors: Adam R. Abate, David A. Weitz

Institution: Harvard University

Language: English

Topic: Innovative Microfluidic and Catalytic Techniques Innovation

Subfield: Biomedical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

Open Access status: bronze

Funders: National Science Foundation, Massachusetts Life Sciences Center, Materials Research Science and Engineering Center, Harvard University, Division of Materials Research

Award: Synthesis and Properties of Deformable Biomaterials and Soft Matter Systems