Design and simulation of a novel micro-mixer along with a dielectrophoresis based focusing mechanism for clinical applications

Abstract

We report a successful design and simulation of a novel micro-mixer with embedded micro electrodes to produce dielectrophoresis (DEP) force in order to focus particles in the middle of the channel and reduce sedimentation of particles. The device is designed to let cells with diameter of less than 15μm pass and therefore it can be integrated in the micro-scale cell sorters, which should be a key device for clinical applications. First, the concept of micro-mixers and dielectrophoresis phenomena is introduced. Then, design and simulation results of the micromixer and micro electrodes are presented, and evaluation of the mixer performance and focusing mechanism is discussed.