Abstract:

In digital microfluidics, discrete droplets are manipulated on an open platform. The main advantages of digital microfluidics compared to continuous droplet microfluidics are the wider design space of the platform that is not limited to channels, and the potential for higher efficiency sample processing by actuating multiple droplets simultaneously. Magnetic digital microfluidics, where actuation of discrete droplets Is achieved by applying a magnetic field, shows high biocompatibility, high tolerance to liquid properties, and low resource consumption. Therefore, magnetic digital microfluidics is generally well-suited for carrying out complex assays with multiple steps. In ferrofluid-based magnetic digital microfluidics, an even distribution of magnetic nanoparticles acts as the magnetic carrier of the droplet. However, the introduction of ferrofluid leads to compatibility issues which lowers the sensitivity of assays. This seminar will be focused on addressing each of the issues and strategies towards improving the compatibility of ferrofluid with immunoassays.