Size-dependent separation of polydisperse samples in a tapered microfluidic device

Abstract

In this paper we introduce the use of tapered microfluidic device for size-based separation of polydisperse samples using passive platform. The separation mechanism works based on hydrodynamic principle which is further amplified by sedimentation effect. The tapered structure allows for generation of gradient pressure as a result from velocity distribution. From this device, we achieved 98% purity of the samples collected from the outlets with low complexity design. Furthermore, the simulation and experimental results are in agreement whereby suggesting that different sized particles were collected at different outlets. The presented microfluidic system is useful and versatile due to its simplicity and ease of operation.