Improved microfluidic mixing with oscillating bubbles and sharp edges

Invention 2019-021

Improved microfluidic mixing with oscillating bubbles and sharp edges

A method to enhance and stabilize acoustic-driven mixing in microfluidic devices has been developed at McGill University.

Market Need

Rapid and homogeneous mixing of chemical/biological species in a microfluidic device is very useful for chemical kinetic studies or nanomaterial synthesis. There are many methods currently in use, but acoustic-based micromixers have received significant attention because of their minimal hardware and ease of use. Driven by an acoustic wave, miniature vortexes are able to rapidly produce a homogeneous environment in a microfluidic device. While the microvortices created by these bubbles are a simple and efficient mixing mechanism, there is still concern about stability and heat generation in current devices.

Technology Summary

This invention improved upon the generation of microbubbles during the micromixing process in acoustic streaming devices by adding sharp edges to the sidewall. With the addition of sharp edges in the vicinity of bubbles, the microstreams are substantially stronger. This steadier stream will decrease bubble instability and lower the likelihood of bubble trapping. By enhancing the speed, the mixture will also become homogeneous in a shorter period of time, thereby reducing heat generation.

Advantages

• Microstreams are stronger with oscillating bubbles and sharp edges in acoustic-driven microfluidic devices
• Rapid homogeneous mixing without the disadvantages of only using microbubbles to mix fluids at the microscale.

Patent Status

Filed US