Control of Particles Using Multi-Frequency DEP

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We present numerical simulations and experiments on dielectrophoretic (DEP) separation and trapping performed in a titanium-based microchannel linear electrode array. The device is designed to allow for effects driven by inhomogeneities in electric-field magnitude driven (p-DEP and n-DEP) and inhomogeneities in electric-field phase-driven (travelling wave) DEP. It is also capable of inducing multi-frequency DEP, in contrast with most of the previous, single-frequency, designs. The advantages of two-frequency DEP were shown by theoretical work (Chang et al. 2003) and permit precise control of particles movements. We show that fluid flow effects are substantial and can affect the particle motion in a positive (enhanced trapping) and negative (trapping when separation is desired) way. To model the AC-electroosmosis, we use the theory developed by Gonzalez et al.

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Journal: TechConnect Briefs
Volume: 3, Technical Proceedings of the 2005 NSTI Nanotechnology Conference and Trade Show, Volume 3
Published: May 8, 2005
Pages: 483 - 486
Industry sector: Sensors, MEMS, Electronics
Topic: MEMS & NEMS Devices, Modeling & Applications
ISBN: 0-9767985-2-2