Method of Fluid Manipulation By Electrodewetting
Simple set upDoes not require permanent manipulation of the surfaceCompatible with hydrophilic materials such as glassTemporary changes that can be easily modified according to the requirements
Biomedical devices such as on-chip synthesis, in vitro fertilization culturing, high-throughput PCROptical devices such as variable lens, electronic paper, video displaysElectronic devices such as variable capacitor, electronic switchMechanical instruments such as rheometer
UCLA researchers have developed a novel method termed electrode dewetting on dielectric (EDOD) that has the opposite effect of EWOD. It can be used to move or modify a fluid droplet much like EWOD but does not require a hydrophobic surface as EWOD does. The result is also opposite as it reduces the contact area (dewetting) between a liquid droplet and surface while EWOD increases the contact area (wetting) between liquid droplet and surface.
Background Electrode wetting on dielectric (EWOD) is a well-known effect that involves application of electric field to move or modify a fluid droplet. It is most commonly utilized in biomedical devices that require manipulation of small liquid volumes (on the order of 400nL). However, its main limitation is that it requires a hydrophobic surface. Since most synthesized or natural surfaces are hydrophilic, the dielectrics are coated with a hydrophobic material that often reduces the shelf life of the dielectric, is prone to failure and is costly. Additional Technologies by these Inventors Tech ID/UC Case 27230/2016-409-0 Related Cases 2016-409-0
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