Self-digitization of sample volumes.

ABSTRACT: This paper describes a very simple and robust microfluidic device for digitizing samples into an array of discrete volumes. The device is based on an inherent fluidic phenomenon, where an incoming aqueous sample divides itself into an array of chambers that have been primed with an immiscible phase. Self-digitization of sample volumes results from the interplay between fluidic forces, interfacial tension, channel geometry, and the final stability of the digitized samples in the chambers. Here, we describe experiments and simulations that were used to characterize these parameters and the conditions under which the self-digitization process occurred. Unlike existing methods used to partition samples into an array, our method is able to digitize 100% of a sample into a localized array withou

SUBMITTER: Cohen DE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2901535 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature