A droplet-based pH regulator in microfluidics†
Abstract
In this paper, we develop a strategy to form on-demand droplets with specific pH values. The pH control is based on electrolysis of water in microfluidics, and the produced hydrogen and hydroxyl ions are separated and confined in individual containers during the droplet generation, triggered by a pressure pulse. By tuning the applied voltages and pressure pulses, we can control on demand the pH value in a droplet.