Abstract
Shape is an important indicator of cell type, cycle, and state, etc., and can thus serve as a specific marker for label-free bioparticle separation. We demonstrate in this work a shape-based separation of equal-volumed spherical and peanut particles in viscoelastic fluids through straight rectangular microchannels. This continuous sheath-free separation arises from the shape-dependent equilibrium particle position(s) as a result of the flow-induced elasto-inertial lift and shear thinning effects. A continuous transition from single to dual and to triple equilibrium positions is observed for both types of particles with the increase in flow rate. However, the flow rate at which the transition takes place differs with the particle shape. This phenomenon occurs only in microchannels with a large aspect ratio (width/height) and has not been reported before. It is speculated to correlate with the dissimilar dependences of elastic and inertial lift forces on particle size and flow rate as well as the rotational effects of non-spherical particles.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.