Speedy separation offers tool for microplastics and cancer cell studies

The scientists at Stockholm-based research university KTH Royal Institute of Technology outlined in Nature Microsystems & Nanoengineering their faster and more precise method of elasto-inertial microfluidics: controlling the movement of tiny particles by harnessing the elastic properties of the fluid they are contained in and also the forces that come into play when that fluid moves.

PhD student and lead author Selim Tanriverdi said the method’s potential uses might include medical testing, environmental monitoring and manufacturing. He added that the process could speedily sort cells or other particles in blood samples and also remove pollutants in water to analyse. Additionally, it could facilitate development of better materials by more efficient separation of components.

The microfluidic device employed contains engineered channels that can handle relatively large amounts of fluid and enable the sorting and lining up of particles.

Meanwhile, fluids designed specifically with high polymer concentrations boost accuracy and their viscoelastic character can push like water but contract in a way comparable to an egg white, ensuring particles can be guided to move in specific ways.

“We showed how the sample throughput can be increased within our microfluidic channel. This would lower the process time for blood analysis, which is crucial for a patient,” explained Tanriverdi.

The study also indicated that larger particles were easier to control and remained focused even with increased fluid flow, while smaller particles needed optimal flow rates to stay in line.

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Pic: A microchip that could help reduce the process time for blood analysis is displayed by Selim Tanriverdi, a PhD student at KTH (photo by David Callahan)