Abstract
Capturing cells or biological entities is an important and challenging step toward in-vitro studies of cells under a precisely controlled microscale environment. In this work, we have developed a compact and efficient microdevice for on-chip trapping of micro-sized particles. This hydrodynamics-based trapping system allows the isolation of polystyrene micro-particles with a shorter time while inducing a less hydrodynamic deformation and stress on the particles or cells both after and before trapping. A numerical simulation was carried out to design a hydrodynamic trapping mechanism and optimize the geometric and fluidic parameters affecting the trapping efficiency of the microfluidic network. By using the finite element analysis, the velocity field, pressure field, and hydrodynamic force on the micro particles were studied. Finally, a PDMS microfluidic device was fabricated to test the device’s ability to trap polystyrene microspheres. Computational fluid analysis and experimental testing showed a high trapping efficiency that is more than 90%. This microdevice can be used for single cell studies including their biological, physical and chemical characterization.
Highlights
The concept of this design is to keep the flow resistance of the empty sites low compared to the main channel in order to direct the particles into the trap sites through optimizing the geometry of the traps and the main channel
In order to avoid clogging inside the microfluidic channel and monitor trajectories of particles, they were injected at a low concentration, and it was found that microbeads are distributed non-uniformly at the entrance of the main channel and non-sequential trapping was observed during micro particles loading
A series of trap sites were located on both sides of the main channel to accommodate single particles by controlling hydrodynamic forces
Summary
The concept of this design is to keep the flow resistance of the empty sites low compared to the main channel in order to direct the particles into the trap sites through optimizing the geometry of the traps and the main channel. The main and side channels need to be designed such that each trap achieves not more than a single particle/cell while they experience a low hydrodynamic stress.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: 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.
