Hybrid opto-electric manipulation in microfluidics-opportunities and challenges

Aloke Kumar, Oak Ridge Natl Lab, Oak Ridge, TN
Stuart J. Williams, University of Louisville
Han-Sheng Chuang, University of Pennsylvania
Nicolas G. Green, University of Southhampton
Steven T. Wereley, Birck Nanotechnology Center - Purdue University

Abstract

Hybrid opto-electric manipulation in microfluidics/nanofluidics refers to a set of methodologies employing optical modulation of electrokinetic schemes to achieve particle or fluid manipulation at the micro-and nano-scale. Over the last decade, a set of methodologies, which differ in their modulation strategy and/or the length scale of operation, have emerged. These techniques offer new opportunities with their dynamic nature, and their ability for parallel operation has created novel applications and devices. Hybrid opto-electric techniques have been utilized to manipulate objects ranging in diversity from millimetre-sized droplets to nano-particles. This review article discusses the underlying principles, applications and future perspectives of various hybrid opto-electric techniques that have emerged over the last decade under a unified umbrella.

Discipline(s)

Nanoscience and Nanotechnology