Acoustic manipulation for particles motion transformation by ultrasonic phased arrays

Abstract

Acoustic tweezers utilize the interaction between acoustic waves and the acoustic radiation force exerted on objects to achieve precise motion control. Compared to other tweezer technologies, acoustic tweezers offer distinct advantages such as deep tissue penetration capability and enhanced acoustic radiation forces. Phased-array acoustic tweezers, in particular, have attracted growing research interest owing to their superior programmability. However, existing studies on phased-array systems predominantly focus on particle levitation in fluid environments – a quasi-static process with limited temporal resolution – while complex dynamic behaviors remain underexplored. In this work, we designed and constructed an 8 × 8 phased-array acoustic tweezer system for programmable particle trajectory control. The acoustic pressure field distributions were analyzed via finite element modeling, and focal positions were experimentally validated using the Schlieren imaging technique. We further investigated the spatial characteristics of acoustic radiation force fields and performed dynamic force analysis during particle motion. Experimental results demonstrated that phased-array acoustic tweezers can manipulate particle trajectories through coordinated activation of array elements, enabling directional transport of particles into designated microchannels. This platform achieves label-free particle manipulation without reliance on optical or magnetic properties, thereby expanding the toolkit for contactless control and showcasing promising applications in additive manufacturing and sustainable powder recycling technologies.