Two-dimensional acoustic focusing of microparticles in two-phase droplet-based microfluidic systems increases particle detectability

Abstract

We have fabricated a silicon-glass two-phase droplet-based microfluidic system and implemented two-dimensional acoustic focusing prior to droplet generation as well as continuously throughout the whole system to increase particle detectability. Using acoustic focusing we have effectively minimized sedimentation of the encapsulated particles and thereby increased particle detectability by as much as 44% compared to unactuated operation of the system