Continuous-Flow Electrokinetic Enrichment/Separation of Nanoparticles Using 3d Microelectrode Tracks

Continuous-flow electrokinetic enrichment/separation of nanoparticles is demonstrated in a device based on target nanoparticles railing along 3D microelectrode tracks. The device utilizes dielectrophoresis and electrohydrodynamic drag including electrothermal flow in high-conductive media and AC electroosmosis in low-conductive media. An enrichment efficiency of ~100% is noted for 500 nm and 1 μm polystyrene spheres in media at a conductivity of 0.2 and 0.01 S/m. Size-based separation of the two is also shown efficient in deionized water using a modified design.