Novel platform for droplet detection and size measurement using microstrip transmission lines

We propose a novel platform for detecting as well as measuring the size of individual droplets in microfluidic channels using microstrip transmission lines. The most outstanding feature of our platform is that, as opposed to previous related works, its design allows for the droplet to flow in a micr...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Autores: Schianti, Juliana de Novais, Serrano, Ariana L. C., de Carvalho, Daniel Orquiza [UNESP], Penchel, Rafael A. [UNESP], Pinheiro, Julio Mota, Gongora-Rubio, Mario R., Rehder, Gustavo Pamplona
Tipo de recurso: artículo
Estado:Versión publicada
Fecha de publicación:2019
País:Brasil
Institución:Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP)
Repositorio:Repositório Institucional da UNESP
Idioma:inglés
OAI Identifier:oai:repositorio.unesp.br:11449/198209
Acceso en línea:http://dx.doi.org/10.3390/s19235216
http://hdl.handle.net/11449/198209
Access Level:acceso abierto
Palabra clave:Emulsion
Microfluidics
Microstrip transmission line
Descripción
Sumario:We propose a novel platform for detecting as well as measuring the size of individual droplets in microfluidic channels using microstrip transmission lines. The most outstanding feature of our platform is that, as opposed to previous related works, its design allows for the droplet to flow in a microfluidic channel fabricated between the top strip and the ground plane of a microstrip transmission line. This provides enhanced interaction of the electromagnetic field with the detected droplets. The proposed design allows us to measure droplet size directly from the phase of the microwave signal, without the need for a resonator. The platform is based on low temperature co-fired ceramic (LTCC), which makes it more compatible with Radiofrequency (RF) and microwave technology than platforms used in previous works. With this platform, we are able to measure droplets as small as 150 µm in radius. It is worth pointing out that our device could also be used for detection, counting and measurement of other microscopic objects.