Abstract
We propose a novel platform for detecting as well as measuring the size of individual droplets in microfluidic channels using microstrip transmission lines. The most outstanding feature of our platform is that, as opposed to previous related works, its design allows for the droplet to flow in a microfluidic channel fabricated between the top strip and the ground plane of a microstrip transmission line. This provides enhanced interaction of the electromagnetic field with the detected droplets. The proposed design allows us to measure droplet size directly from the phase of the microwave signal, without the need for a resonator. The platform is based on low temperature co-fired ceramic (LTCC), which makes it more compatible with Radiofrequency (RF) and microwave technology than platforms used in previous works. With this platform, we are able to measure droplets as small as 150 µm in radius. It is worth pointing out that our device could also be used for detection, counting and measurement of other microscopic objects.
Highlights
An emulsion is a liquid dispersion composed of single or multiple droplets suspended in an immiscible continuous phase
In this work we proposed an alternative EM wave-based method where microstrip transmission lines were used in conjunction with microfluidic devices in order to detect as well as measure droplet dimensions directly from the phase shift induced by the local variation of the relative permittivity
The diameter was largely dependent on the dimensions of the channels that formed the T-junction of the microfluidic device
Summary
An emulsion is a liquid dispersion composed of single or multiple droplets suspended in an immiscible continuous phase These droplets are frequently used as carriers for different types of liquid or solids, including drugs and cells for a breadth of applications. In this way, emulsions have been widely used in the pharmaceutical, chemical and food industries, as well as in material science and biotechnological areas, in order to improve the quality and bioavailability of chemicals, as well as to guarantee protection and encapsulation of drugs providing controlled release [1]. Microfluidic devices have shown to be a promising means for producing emulsion essentially due to the high degree of control over the droplet uniformity in size. Micro-channels fabricated using different techniques have been successfully used to generate, in a very controlled manner, droplets aimed towards different applications, such as encapsulation of flavors and fragrances [2], vitamins [3] and nanoparticles [4] in the pharmaceutical and food industries
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