title: Optimization of sample transfer in two-dimensional microfluidic separation systems.
abstract: Multidimensional microfluidic separation systems combining a first dimension microchannel with an array of parallel second dimension microchannels can suffer from non-uniform sample transfer between the dimensions, sample leakage, and injection plug tailing within the second dimension array. These factors can significantly reduce overall two-dimensional separation performance. In this paper, numerical and analytical models reveal an optimized chip design which combines multidimensional backbiasing and an angled channel geometry to ensure leakage-free and uniform interdimensional sample transfer, while also minimizing injected sample plug lengths. The optimized design is validated experimentally using a multidimensional chip containing five second dimension channels.
authors.affiliation: Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD, USA.
authors.forename: Shuang
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Yang
authors.forename: Jikun
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Liu
authors.forename: Don L
authors.initials: DL
authors.lastname: DeVoe
mesh_terms: D053000:Analytic Sample Preparation Methods / Q000295:instrumentation*; D003198:Computer Simulation; D004867:Equipment Design; D007267:Injections; D046210:Microfluidic Analytical Techniques / Q000295:instrumentation*; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D013997:Time Factors