Solute-particle separation in microfluidics enhanced by symmetrical convection

Abstract

The utilization of microfluidic technology for miniaturized and efficient particle sorting holds significant importance in fields such as biology, chemistry, and healthcare. Passive separation methods, achieved by modifying the geometric shapes of microchannels, enable gentle and straightforward enrichment and separation of particles. Building upon previous discussions regarding the effects of column arrays on fluid flow and particle separation within microchips, we introduced a column array structure into an H-shaped microfluidic chip. It was observed that this structure enhanced mass transfer between two fluids while simultaneously intercepting particles within one fluid, satisfying the requirements for particle interception. This enhancement was primarily achieved by transforming the originally single-mode diffusion-based mass transfer into dual-mode diffusion-convection mass transfer. By further optimizing the column array, it was possible to meet the basic requirements of mass transfer and particle interception with fewer microcolumns, thereby reducing device pressure drop and facilitating the realization of parallel and high-throughput microfluidic devices. These findings have enhanced the potential application of microfluidic systems in clinical and chemical engineering domains.